Verstappen Racing signs multi-year Mercedes D…read more
Verstappen Racing has confirmed a major new long-term partnership with Mercedes-AMG Motorsport, setting the stage for an ambitious campaign beginning with the 2026 GT3 season. The agreement represents a significant milestone for Max Verstappen’s racing organisation as it aligns itself with one of the most successful manufacturers in global GT racing.
Under the multi-year deal, Verstappen Racing will continue its presence in the GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS, but with a notable change in machinery. From 2026 onward, the team will switch to the Mercedes-AMG GT3, fielding the car in both the Sprint Cup and Endurance Cup championships. This move signals a clear intent to compete at the highest level of customer GT racing in Europe.
The on-track programme will be operated in partnership with 2 Seas Motorsport, a team widely respected for its experience and success with Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars. The collaboration brings together Verstappen Racing’s growing ambition with an established operation that has already delivered race wins and championship titles using Mercedes machinery.
Mercedes-AMG Customer Racing’s head, Stefan Wendl, spoke positively about the new alliance, stressing both the quality and ambition of the project. He noted that Verstappen Racing’s decision to run the Mercedes-AMG GT3 underlines the strength of the manufacturer’s customer racing programme. Wendl also highlighted the importance of 2 Seas Motorsport’s involvement, pointing to the team’s proven track record as a key factor in the project’s potential. According to him, the partnership represents a high-calibre and highly promising entry into both Sprint and Endurance competitions within the GT World Challenge Europe.
Driver continuity will play an important role in the 2026 campaign. Chris Lulham, who competed with Verstappen Racing in the GT World Challenge Europe Sprint Cup, will remain with the team for a second consecutive season. Having gained valuable experience during his first year in GT3 racing, Lulham now steps into a programme with greater factory support and a more extensive technical foundation.
For the Sprint Cup, Lulham will be joined by Daniel Juncadella, a driver well known for his deep experience in GT racing and long-standing association with Mercedes-AMG. Juncadella’s résumé includes years of competition at the top level of GT3 racing, making him a key asset as Verstappen Racing adapts to new machinery. Together, Lulham and Juncadella will contest all five Sprint Cup rounds at some of Europe’s most iconic circuits, with 2 Seas Motorsport managing the race operations.
Lulham described the move to Mercedes-AMG as an exciting step forward in his career. He explained that his first GT3 season provided valuable lessons and that the opportunity to now work alongside Mercedes-AMG Motorsport and a highly experienced teammate represents a major progression. He also expressed enthusiasm about continuing in the championship with a new car and renewed objectives, stating that he is eager to begin preparations for the season ahead.
Juncadella echoed those sentiments, emphasising the strength of the overall project. He expressed gratitude to Verstappen Racing for the opportunity and confidence in the partnership with Mercedes-AMG Motorsport. According to the Spanish driver, the involvement of Max Verstappen, particularly in terms of input and direction, adds further credibility and competitiveness to the programme.
Beyond the Sprint Cup, Verstappen Racing will also mount a full assault on the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup in 2026. For the endurance campaign, Lulham and Juncadella will be joined by Mercedes-AMG Performance driver Jules Gounon. Gounon brings elite-level experience and factory backing, strengthening the team’s chances across the five endurance rounds, including the prestigious 24 Hours of Spa.
Gounon spoke positively about the project, noting his long-standing relationship with Mercedes-AMG and expressing excitement about extending that collaboration with Verstappen Racing. He described the programme as well-rounded, combining strong drivers, professional organisation and competitive machinery. In his view, all the necessary elements are in place to deliver strong results from the outset.
With manufacturer support, a proven operational partner and a balanced driver line-up blending youth and experience, Verstappen Racing’s transition to Mercedes-AMG represents a bold statement of intent. As preparations begin for the 2026 GT World Challenge Europe season, the team appears well positioned to make a serious impact in both sprint and endurance competition.
