Verstappen Charges to Ninth in GTWC Finale After Portimao Penalty
Max Verstappen recovered from a grid penalty to finish ninth in the GT World Challenge Europe season finale at Portimao, Portugal. The four-time Formula 1 champion drove a Mercedes-AMG for GetSpeed Racing, starting 24th after a penalty for a collision during free practice. The race concluded the 2026 season with a 61-car GT3 grid, while Porsche secured pole position. Verstappen’s participation drew significant attention to the series, with fellow drivers praising his presence and highlighting the increased mainstream interest in GT racing.