The third round of the 2026 GT World Challenge Europe at the iconic Autodromo Nazionale Monza began in dramatic fashion after a major multi-car accident on the opening lap disrupted the race and swept several front-running contenders into the chaos, including the Verstappen Racing Mercedes-AMG entry.
Fresh from competing in the demanding Nürburgring 24 Hours, Verstappen Racing arrived at Monza with a strong driver lineup consisting of Dani Juncadella, Chris Lulham and Jules Gounon. The team was aiming to build momentum in the championship despite facing an early setback before the race weekend had fully begun.
A penalty incurred during free practice left the No. 3 Mercedes-AMG starting from seventh position on the grid, placing the team in the thick of the midfield battle as the field charged toward the opening chicane.
When the lights went out, Juncadella made an impressive getaway and immediately looked to gain positions. However, the tightly packed field quickly became congested approaching Turn 1, where contact between several cars triggered a chain reaction. The incident rapidly escalated into a large multi-vehicle collision, forcing drivers to take evasive action while leaving little room for those caught in the middle.
Among the unfortunate victims was the Verstappen Racing car. Juncadella found himself boxed in as the incident unfolded around him and was unable to avoid contact. The Mercedes-AMG sustained damage to its front end during the melee, raising concerns about the team’s chances of recovering from the setback.
Despite the impact, Juncadella successfully kept the car under control and was able to continue circulating, allowing Verstappen Racing to remain in contention rather than suffering an immediate retirement. The ability to stay in the race represented an important achievement given the scale of the opening-lap disorder that affected multiple competitors.
Race officials and broadcasters later confirmed that all drivers involved in the accident escaped without injury, providing a positive outcome after what was a frightening start to one of the most competitive events on the GT World Challenge Europe calendar.
While the opening-lap drama undoubtedly complicated Verstappen Racing’s race strategy, the team’s ability to continue offered hope of salvaging valuable championship points from an event that began in the most turbulent circumstances possible.