Max Verstappen says he is trying to make his Spa 24 Hours debut in 2027 after the race avoided a clash with next season’s Formula 1 calendar.
The four-time world champion revealed his plans while making his GT World Challenge Europe debut at Portimão this weekend, where he is racing a Mercedes-AMG GT3 for Verstappen Racing.
Verstappen has increasingly pursued GT racing alongside his Formula 1 career and has previously spoken about wanting to compete in more endurance events. Spa is now one he is actively trying to add to his schedule.
Verstappen targets Spa 24 Hours
Asked whether the lack of an F1 clash could allow him to race at Spa next year, Verstappen said: “I love Spa of course, so I’m trying to make it work, as I want to arrive well prepared.
“I’m going to try my best to be there.”
The 24-hour race takes place on 26-27 June, fitting into a gap between two F1 weekends. Verstappen will race at Portimão in the Portuguese Grand Prix from 18-20 June before heading to Silverstone for the British Grand Prix on 2-4 July.
That gives him a free weekend for Spa, although fitting the preparation required for a 24-hour race around his F1 commitments still needs to be resolved. The event would also have particular significance for Verstappen, who described himself as “half Belgian” and noted Spa’s proximity to the Dutch border.
“For me it would be nice to join and to race in one of the biggest endurance events of the year,” he said.
Verstappen is getting another taste of GT3 competition at Portimão this weekend alongside Chris Lulham and Ben Barnicoat. His appearance is his first in GT World Challenge Europe, with Verstappen saying before the event that he was stepping outside his comfort zone against drivers who race GT3 machinery throughout the season.
The Spa entry is not yet confirmed, but Verstappen’s intention is clear: “I’m going to try my best to be there.”
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