With two of the world’s best drivers in one cockpit, you best believe the GTD was pushed to its absolute limits.
Gearing up for its triumphant return to motorsport’s biggest stages like Formula 1, Ford Performance continues to pile on the track projects that add to its legacy and history in racing. Ford’s calendar is filling up quickly with deliveries and track sessions, from the release of its highly anticipated Mustang GTD to prepping for its spot on the F1 grid in 2026 with a Red Bull Racing partnership. And to touch on all the new things happening at Ford and Red Bull Racing, Automotive Journalist Chris Harris recently spent some time behind the wheel of past and future four-wheel icons alongside Formula 1 Champion Max Verstappen in Ford Performance’s newest YouTube video. The end goal of testing the Ford Mustang GTD on track in the South of France begins with a spirited commute in a Ford RS200.
Being the deep-thinking, passionate car nerd we’ve all grown to love through his in-depth reviews, pushing some of the most powerful cars to their limits, Chris Harris used his time with Max to get answers to some of the questions he’s been dying to ask. Whether it be lessons from his early age, go-kart training at the track with his dad, or breaking down the steps of a V-style racing line, Max gave insight into the upbringing and ongoing training it takes to become and maintain his role as a winning Formula 1 driver. Another interesting topic of discussion that the two conversed on while in the hot cabin of a homologated Group B road car was Max’s diverse racing career and how his style of driving differs between cars and their classes. He deems it undescribable and only truly achieved by feeling and knowing the limits, whether in his Red Bull Racing RB21 car or while GT3 racing under the alias “Franz Hermann.”
Arriving at the small French racetrack, the first thing that caught Max’s eye was the vibrant blue finish on the GTD, calling the shade a “spicy color.” Behind the wheel, Max Verstappen gets right to business. Instead of gradually learning the layout, he digs into each corner, figuring out where the grip is and isn’t, all while pushing the car harder with every lap. The Ford Mustang GTD suits his style, handling rough surfaces with confidence and making the most of its brakes and sticky tires. It’s the kind of driving that shows just how naturally talented he is and how capable the GTD is when properly used. Chris Harris, riding along, seemed genuinely impressed with the car and with Verstappen’s ability to make it dance around the circuit like second nature.
Source: Ford Performance YouTube