Four-time Formula One world champion Max Verstappen experienced a mixed outcome in his 24-hour racing debut on Sunday, driving a Mercedes. The Dutchman, sharing a Mercedes AMG GT3 car with Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon, and Dani Juncadella, had led the race before a mechanical issue ended hopes of victory.
Early Dominance
In the morning, Verstappen was more than 30 seconds ahead, but problems emerged when Juncadella took over from Verstappen at the Nurburgring in Germany. He had to slow down due to a damaged shaft, lost the lead, pitted, and the car was taken into the garage. Three hours later, it returned to the race, finishing in 38th place.
Verstappen's Reaction
'Very unfortunate and frustrating ending, but these things can happen,' Verstappen, who drives for Red Bull in Formula One, wrote on Instagram. He added that he 'still really enjoyed the experience.' The race came as Verstappen continues to question his future in Formula One over the supposed reliance on electrical power.
He had branded the race a 'bucket list' experience and is targeting a return next year. 'I think in general it's just the competition, the endurance style racing where you share with teammates,' he said. 'The 24-hour race here, the track is super challenging, so it's a whole combo. I will for sure try (to return for next year). It always depends a bit on my schedule, but let's first enjoy now.'
Formula One Struggles
Verstappen has had a tough year in Formula One. He is seventh in the standings with just 26 points amid Red Bull's decline over the last year. He will return to action at the Canadian Grand Prix next weekend. On a 15.8-mile circuit, 159 cars took the start, and Verstappen made his way through the field, narrowly escaping a crash when two Porsches collided in front of him. Mercedes' sister car, driven by Maro Engel, Luca Stolz, Fabian Schiller, and Maxime Martin, took victory.
