Verstappen embracing GT3 amidst new future speculations.

      Max Verstappen expressed his desire to race "as much as possible" outside of Formula 1 as he gets ready for his first Nurburgring 24 Hours next weekend. The Dutch driver's expanding GT3 program has led to increased speculation about his long-term future in Formula 1 and his dissatisfaction with the contentious 2026 regulations. He will compete in a Red Bull-branded Mercedes-AMG GT3 at the Nordschleife later this month, which some find surprising given Red Bull’s F1 engine partnership with Ford. Former F1 driver Juan Pablo Montoya indicated that Ford would likely be uncomfortable with its star driver participating in a rival manufacturer’s vehicle, suggesting he would "pressure Max" to refrain from doing so. This situation adds to ongoing speculation connecting Verstappen with Mercedes, Ferrari, and even the possibility of leaving Formula 1 altogether. Former Red Bull driver David Coulthard believes Ferrari would be the best fit for Verstappen. "Yeah, I think Max actually fits better into the Ferrari environment than that of Mercedes," he shared on the Up To Speed podcast. "I understand they have a good relationship, and he’s racing a Mercedes in his GT3 events. However, the freedom to be Max would likely be more comfortable at Ferrari, where he could simply show up, drive fast, likely win races, and then go home." In contrast, Mercedes drivers seem to have less freedom outside of Formula 1; George Russell recently acknowledged that Mercedes would not allow him to race in GT3 cars at this time. Verstappen also indicated in Miami that he seeks more endurance racing opportunities. "Of course, I want to do more, but it also largely depends on the calendar," he stated in an interview with Dutch outlet Formule 1. "For instance, if there had been a free weekend for the 24 Hours of Spa, I would have participated in that this year as well." "So if there's any chance to race, I'm excited to do it." The Spa 24 Hours coincides with the Austrian GP this year. Verstappen's participation at Nurburgring follows a tense Formula 1 weekend in Miami, where tension in the midfield heightened after his early spin and aggressive recovery. Carlos Sainz accused Verstappen of acting differently when racing outside the front runners. "He believes he can do anything he wants just because he's in the midfield," Sainz commented, acknowledging that the midfield drivers would have to yield to him. Verstappen dismissed the criticism. "What was aggressive?" he responded. "I don't know; it can be a bit rough in the midfield, so I’m not sure what to say." This incident comes amid fresh speculation regarding potential long-term replacements for Verstappen should he leave Red Bull, with Sainz and Oscar Piastri being mentioned as possibilities.