Former Grand Prix winner Juan Pablo Montoya has urged Red Bull to stop Max Verstappen from racing in GT3 and concentrate on Formula 1.
Verstappen’s challenging start to 2026 and discontent for the new technical regulations has seen the four-time world champion explore racing in GT3.
Although his ventures in 2026 ended in disqualifications, the Dutchman continues to plan to race in the series for the rest of the year.
But Montoya has questioned why Red Bull allow Verstappen to race in the series, light of the tragic qualifying accident at the Nurburgring 24 Hours that killed Juha Miettinen.
The Columbian gave his honest opinion, believing Red Bull must act to reign in Verstappen’s growing racing commitments.
“I have a question about this,” Montoya said on the MontoyAS podcast.
“I know that what happened is terrible. Do you think Red Bull would reconsider what permission they give Max to race those cars?
“No, because they are afraid of losing him.”
When asked if Red Bull should impose a ban on letting Verstappen race outside of F1, Montoya replied: “100 per cent. No, sorry. 200 per cent.
“There could be an accident, he could break his leg or arm.”
Max Verstappen GT3 racing an accident waiting to happen?
Elaborating on his reasoning, Montoya believed the accident should be forcing Red Bull’s hand.
“The money that Red Bull has invested in him should be enough reason to say, ‘Look, we gave you the chance, but with this accident we are reconsidering it and we think that this should not happen’.
“Personally, I would have done it if I had been the boss of Red Bull.
“I would have called Max and said, ‘Sir, please, don’t get in the car anymore.’ It’s something I think they really need to reconsider.”
Montoya, confirmed that he explored similar opportunities to Verstappen when racing in F1, but was blocked.
“For example, it’s true that several times during my career I was invited to drive rally cars and do tests,” he said.
“I would have loved that, but they never let me drive. You are investing in the driver – a big investment. Then you have to protect him.”
Montoya may be an isolated voice at present, but as Verstappen’s commitments continue to grow, a discussion over priorities for the Dutchman with Red Bull could become a reality.
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