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Max Verstappen shocks F1 world with stunning Mercedes test just before Red Bull launch

Harry Bright by Harry Bright
January 16, 2026
in Motorsports
Reading Time: 2 mins read
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Max Verstappen shocks F1 world with stunning Mercedes test just before Red Bull launch

Max Verstappen Shocks F1 World with Secret Mercedes Test Days Before Red Bull Reveal!

In a surprising twist that has left the Formula 1 community buzzing, Max Verstappen, the reigning four-time world champion, took a detour from his off-season break to conduct a secretive test with Mercedes. Just days before Red Bull’s highly anticipated livery launch, Verstappen was spotted at the Algarve International Circuit in Portimao, behind the wheel of a Mercedes-AMG GT3 car, raising eyebrows and igniting speculation about his future in endurance racing.

The Formula 1 grid, still reeling from the excitement of the previous season, is gearing up for a monumental 2026 rule change. As teams scramble to adapt, Red Bull has already unveiled its new look, but Verstappen’s unexpected outing with Mercedes has stolen the spotlight. The F1 testing calendar is looming, with the first session set to kick off on January 26 in Barcelona, followed by critical three-day tests in Bahrain throughout February.

Social media influencer Ivo Matczak shared a thrilling video of Verstappen’s Red Bull-branded GT3 car racing down the main straight, capturing the moment the driver showcased his skills in a vehicle not usually associated with him. Matczak enthusiastically recounted his experience meeting the driving legend, stating, “Many people have been saying he’s not kind, but he doesn’t deserve any of it. The Max I met today was incredibly nice!” This candid encounter challenges the narrative surrounding Verstappen’s personality, showcasing a side of him that fans rarely see.

But what does this mean for Verstappen’s future? His commitment to his racing team, Verstappen Racing, is solidified by a multi-year deal with Mercedes-AMG set to begin in 2026. Despite his debut in GT3 racing with Ferrari at the Nordschleife, Verstappen’s ambition to excel in endurance racing is clear. However, as the clock ticks down to the crucial Nurburgring 24 Hours race, doubts loom. The schedule clash with the F1 season and the introduction of new cars in 2026 could hinder his participation. He has openly expressed concerns about the impact of these changes on his availability and focus.

Regardless, Verstappen’s aspirations remain lofty. He aims to elevate his team’s status within the GT World Challenge Europe Gold Cup, transitioning from rookie status to competing at the professional level. “My project is getting bigger and better,” he confidently declared, signaling his intent to dominate not just in F1 but also in the world of endurance racing.

In this high-stakes environment, every move Verstappen makes is scrutinized. Will this secret Mercedes test be the turning point in his career? One thing is for sure: as the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Verstappen and his quest for racing supremacy, both on and off the F1 track. The drama is just beginning, and fans are eager to see what unfolds next in the thrilling saga of Max Verstappen!

Tags: 1958-formula-1-season2019-red-bull-crandon-world-cupmax-verstappen-enmercedes-amg-f1
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