Max Verstappen Drives GT500 Car, Beats Atsushi Miyake's Lap Time

Last Updated:May 08, 2026, 11:47 IST

Max Verstappen tested GT500 car at wet Fuji Speedway Super GT demo.

Max Verstappen drove a GT500 car at Fuji Speedway in Japan during a wet-weather Super GT demonstration held ahead of his planned participation in the ADAC RAVENOL 24 Hours of Nürburgring, scheduled for May 14-17.

Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 world champion, was testing the car for the first time.

GT500 machinery typically produces around 650 horsepower and significant aerodynamic downforce. In the session, Japanese Super GT driver Atsushi Miyake completed two laps in changing rain conditions. Miyake, a former Fuji winner who debuted in Super GT in 2020 and moved into the GT500 class in 2024, posted a 1:45.453 on his first lap before improving to 1:44.075 on his second, which set the benchmark for Verstappen.

Verstappen then drove in worsening rain conditions, with visible standing water on parts of the circuit. After an out lap, his first flying lap was just over a tenth of a second slower than Miyake’s best time. On his second timed lap, he improved sector by sector, recording a 1:42.290, which was quicker than Miyake’s benchmark. He also completed a final lap as conditions remained wet.

Verstappen said the conditions made it difficult to push consistently, noting the challenges of braking and throttle control on a wet surface. He said he was adapting to the car’s steering and tyre grip during the session. He added that he is looking forward to competing in the Nürburgring 24-hour race and preparing as best as possible. Miyake said he was surprised by Verstappen’s pace and found the comparison informative.

The session forms part of Verstappen’s broader participation in non-Formula 1 racing activities, which have included various GT and endurance cars in recent years. The footage is available on Red Bull Motorsports’ official channel.

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