Max Verstappen is preparing to return to GT3 racing with limited real-world seat time, but the reigning F1 champion has another weapon in his arsenal: an ultra-advanced home simulator.
Key Highlights
- Max Verstappen will race a Mercedes-AMG GT3 at the GT World Challenge Europe finale in Portimao on October 17.
- He will share the No. 3 Mercedes with Chris Lulham and Ben Barnicoat.
- Verstappen prefers a static sim rig, arguing that it allows him to be faster than a motion-based setup.
- His home simulator in Monaco features premium hardware and is estimated to cost around $25,000–$35,000 or more.
Verstappen’s GT3 Return Sets Up Rossi Showdown
Verstappen has not driven a GT3 car since leading his class at the Nurburgring 24 Hours in May, but he is set to return to the category on October 17. The four-time F1 champion will climb into the No. 3 Mercedes-AMG GT3 for the GT World Challenge Europe finale at Portimao, sharing driving duties with Chris Lulham and Ben Barnicoat.
The opportunity opened up after Dani Juncadella and Jules Gounon were committed to the World Endurance Championship round taking place on the same weekend. Adding another layer to the event, Valentino Rossi will also be on the grid in a WRT-run BMW, setting up an intriguing battle between two drivers with vastly different racing backgrounds.
Why Verstappen Prefers a Static Sim Rig
While many high-end racing simulators use motion platforms to replicate the pitching, rolling and movement of a real car, Verstappen has deliberately chosen a static setup.
Speaking on Team Redline's YouTube channel, Verstappen explained that he believes a static rig gives him a performance advantage because there is no unnecessary movement to manage. He acknowledged that motion rigs can provide a more realistic feeling for drivers looking to replicate the sensations of a real car, but argued that the technology is not essential for his purposes.
For Verstappen, the priority is straightforward: speed and precision rather than physical movement. Given his extensive experience dealing with the G-forces of an actual race car, he has little need for a simulator to recreate every physical sensation.
Inside Verstappen’s High-End Sim Setup
Verstappen's home simulator in Monaco is built around high-end racing hardware. His setup includes Simucube ActivePedals, a Precision Sim Engineering LM-X wheel and three curved 32-inch Samsung Odyssey G7 displays. The steering system uses a Leo Bodnar SimSteering2 Ultimate wheelbase, while a Custom Recaro Podium provides the driving seat.
Naturally, his F1 World Drivers' Championship trophy also has a place beside the simulator. There is no confirmed price for the exact setup, but comparable builds have been estimated at around $25,000 to $35,000 or more. That figure does not include the rather important trophy sitting nearby.
The setup even includes a Red Bull Mini Fridge Baby Cooler 2020 RB-BC2020, presumably keeping the drinks within easy reach during long sim sessions.
Verstappen’s Most Important Sim Components
Verstappen previously explained to Car and Driver that his simulator is highly customised, although much of the hardware can be purchased online. For him, two components stand out above the rest: the brake pedal and wheelbase.
He also highlighted the importance of having a capable computer, but believes getting the braking and steering hardware right is particularly important for anyone looking to be competitive.
That attention to detail helps explain why Verstappen's simulator is more than an elaborate gaming setup. It is a training tool designed around the specific requirements of a professional racing driver.
Team Redline Takes the Rig on the Road
During race weekends, Team Redline builds a travel version of his simulator inside his motorhome using a Sim-Lab P1-X cockpit. He also has additional setups at other locations, including one on his yacht. The idea is simple: Verstappen can maintain his sim racing routine regardless of where his schedule takes him.
Why Verstappen Uses iRacing
When it comes to software, iRacing is Verstappen's platform of choice. His relationship with Team Redline also gives him access to a group deeply involved in competitive sim racing and events organised around the racing platform.
That constant exposure to different cars, circuits and competitive situations gives Verstappen a way to continue sharpening his racecraft away from an actual circuit. With Portimao approaching, that preparation could prove particularly useful.
Verstappen Wants Sim Racing to Lead to Real Racing
Verstappen has previously spoken about his ambition to help sim racers make the transition into real-world motorsport. His long-term goal, as he explained to The Athletic, is to see a sim racer successfully move into real racing, develop as a professional driver and eventually make a living from the sport.
Whatever happens when Verstappen faces Rossi and the rest of the GT3 field at Portimao, the F1 champion will arrive with countless hours of preparation behind him — much of it spent strapped into a simulator that can be taken almost anywhere.
