Max Verstappen receives staggering F1 fans agreement over GT racing action

An overwhelming majority of Formula 1 fans believe Max Verstappen's GT3 racing activities are beneficial for Red Bull rather than a distraction, according to a RacingNews365 poll.

The survey revealed that 90.8% of respondents view the four-time world champion's endurance racing programme as keeping him motivated and focused, with just 9.2% considering it a potential hindrance to Red Bull's F1 progress.

Verstappen has been competing in GT3 endurance racing through his team Verstappen Racing, fielding a Mercedes-AMG GT3 with support from Red Bull and partner team Winward Racing. 

His 2026 programme centres on the Nürburgring 24 Hours in May, with preparation including the recent NLS2 event and qualifying for the Nürburgring 24 Hours in April.

Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies has given the venture his full backing, emphasising Verstappen's genuine passion for motorsport. 

"He doesn't need to convince us, really," Mekies explained. "It's enough to speak for a few minutes with Max, and you see his face light up, his eyes light up when he talks about racing cars, and it doesn't matter what type of cars."

Mekies dismissed any concerns about Verstappen's F1 commitment despite the additional racing workload. 

"I have no doubts about his motivation," the Red Bull boss stated. "His way of working with us and his commitment to improvements is the same as last season."

The Dutchman's GT3 activities appear to provide a crucial outlet during what has been a challenging period in F1. 

Verstappen has been vocally critical of the 2026 regulations, and his endurance racing pursuits offer a contrast to the political nature of F1's paddock environment.

The poll results suggest fans recognise the value of keeping Verstappen engaged across multiple racing disciplines, particularly as Red Bull navigate the challenges of the new regulatory era.