Despite his prowess on physical racetracks, Max Verstappen encountered difficulties during the virtual 24 Hours of Daytona sim race on iRacing. Competing in the GTP class for Team Redline, Verstappen aimed to showcase his skills after a previous win in the GTD category. Partnered with Diogo Pinto and Chris Lulham, he piloted the #20 Redline BMW M Hybrid V8. Although starting from third place, Verstappen's race was plagued by two significant incidents that resulted in crashes and penalties. Consequently, the team finished fourth, eight laps behind the winners, Ferrari Esports, who triumphed with their 499P car. The event highlighted the unpredictable nature of virtual racing, where even seasoned drivers can face unexpected challenges.

Verstappen's involvement in sim racing extends beyond this single event. He has actively participated in various competitions, including the virtual Nürburgring 24 Hours and the 2024-25 GTP IMSA Global Esports Championship as a wildcard entrant. Verstappen envisions a future where sim racing plays an integral role in nurturing aspiring drivers. Reflecting on his own journey from go-karting to gaming, he emphasized the evolution of simulators in enhancing driver performance. "Sim racing isn't just about leisure; it offers a realistic experience that helps refine driving skills," Verstappen noted. The physical demands of real-world racing contrast sharply with its virtual counterpart, yet both require mental awareness and adaptability. Verstappen explained that transitioning from basic setups to more professional equipment can significantly improve performance, making a tangible difference in competitive outcomes.

The virtual 24 Hours of Daytona attracted nearly 16,000 participants, underscoring the growing popularity of sim racing. With approximately 17,000 daily players and over nine million registered users, the platform reflects the sport's rapid expansion. Despite setbacks, Verstappen remains optimistic about sim racing's potential to shape the next generation of drivers. He highlighted the importance of bridging performance gaps through better equipment and joining teams to compete at higher levels. Team Redline experienced mixed results at Daytona, winning in the GTD category while facing challenges in the GTP class. Ultimately, Verstappen's commitment to advancing sim racing exemplifies the positive impact of technology on motorsport, fostering talent and innovation for the future.