Shanna is a Formula 1 journalist at GPblog, specializing in both F1 and endurance and GT racing. With a Master’s degree in Journalism and experience at international circuits, she provides in-depth, reliable coverage and insights based on her presence at Grands Prix and racing events worldwide.
Max Verstappen’s arrival in the GT World Challenge Europe paddock in Portugal is naturally attracting plenty of attention. Fans are eager to get an autograph or a selfie, but the organizers are ensuring the Dutchman isn’t rushed by visitors in the paddock.
The weekend ticket, which costs just €25, includes paddock access as well as access to the various pit lane and grid walks. It was not very busy during Thursday’s test day, apart from the occasional fan dressed in Verstappen Racing merchandise.
One young fan even thought he spotted Verstappen walking freely through the paddock and ran after him for an autograph, only to be disappointed when the man turned around and turned out not to be Verstappen at all. Perhaps he’ll have better luck this Friday, although he’ll have to contend with quite a crowd.
About halfway along the paddock, the hospitality units and trucks of 2 Seas Motorsport, the team running Verstappen’s car, are parked. Their neighbors, Christopher Haase’s team, were already peering out curiously when barriers were put up to ensure that Verstappen, Chris Lulham and Ben Barnicoat could walk safely to the truck.
Fans wait for Max Verstappen and his teammates in the paddock - Photo: GPblog
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Strict measures from the GT organizers
The paddock is fairly busy at the moment, but the grandstands are not yet very full. Tickets have still not sold out, although a few fans were worried they might, so they decided to buy a weekend ticket soon after Verstappen’s participation was announced. They don’t mind that the paddock isn’t too busy, though. There is still plenty of seating on a small terrace, along with screens showing the sessions.
The media center is also still relatively quiet, and is nothing like the one at Verstappen’s participation in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring or, for example, a Formula 1 media center. It is mainly occupied by familiar faces from sports car racing journalism, along with the usual large number of photographers.
Before the weekend, the press were firmly warned not to hang around near the garages, particularly those of Verstappen Racing. This was to ensure that Verstappen could get through his weekend in Portimao with as little disruption as possible. Media representatives with appointments at other garages or with other teams are, of course, allowed in with the team staff’s permission.
The Verstappen Racing hospitality unit - Photo: GPblog
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A look inside the pit lane
After the sessions, members of the press can also take a look in the pit lane. This gives them the opportunity to ask teams how the sessions went while they are working on their cars, for example. At Verstappen Racing, however, measures have been taken to ensure that you can’t simply walk in, although you can of course spot Verstappen’s car when the garage door is open.
The second free practice session is currently underway and can be followed live here. You can also watch on board with Verstappen, Lulham and Barnicoat. Qualifying will take place this Friday evening at 17:55, at sunset.
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