Verstappen to race GT3 in 2025 with Red Bull blessing

Max Verstappen will become one of the rare modern Formula 1 drivers to compete in two top-level racing series in a single season, with Red Bull allowing him to make a GT3 debut later in 2025.

The last time an active F1 driver took on such a challenge was in 2017, when Fernando Alonso skipped the Monaco Grand Prix with McLaren to race in the iconic Indy 500.

Now, amid speculation that Verstappen has a performance-related exit clause in his contract, the Dutchman has revealed he has successfully applied for an FIA sports car licence — and was awarded "Platinum" status, the highest category.

Verstappen, 27, recently completed a high-profile test in a Verstappen.com Racing-liveried Ferrari GT3 car at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, where he reportedly broke the lap record for the class.

Speaking in Barcelona, Red Bull advisor Dr Helmut Marko confirmed the reigning champion has the team's blessing.

"If you want to make Max smile, you have to talk about GT," he told ORF.

"There are calendar gaps in the autumn, and I assume Max has already taken a close look at that."

Red Bull has historically limited Verstappen's extracurricular activities — even banning him from skiing — but Marko defended the decision to let him race GT3.

"A GT car is a relatively slow car," he said. "I'm just worried that if he actually starts a race, everyone will have to show how good they are, making life difficult for Max."