Max Verstappen Explores ‘New Ground’ in New Viaplay Docuseries
Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen is stepping into new territory—both literally and figuratively—with the launch of a three-part docuseries that goes beyond his dominant F1 career.
–by Mark Cipolloni–
Titled Max Verstappen – New Ground, the series premiered exclusively on Viaplay on February 10, 2026, offering fans an intimate look at Verstappen as he builds his own racing team and mentors a promising young talent from the world of sim racing.
In the series, Verstappen establishes Verstappen.com Racing (also referred to as Verstappen Racing) and works closely with British driver Chris Lulham, a talented sim racer making the transition to professional GT racing. The documentary highlights the challenges, dedication, and pure passion involved in motorsport away from the spotlight of Formula 1.
A Champion’s New Challenge
Max Verstappen has long been known for his relentless competitiveness and love of racing in all forms. As a four-time F1 champion, he has earned the freedom to pursue projects that excite him outside the intense pressure of the championship battle. The docuseries captures this next chapter, where he takes on the role of team owner and mentor.
“Viaplay and I have worked together for many years to show what racing is really about—not just the results, but the work, the dedication and the passion behind it,” Verstappen says in the announcement. “‘New Ground’ is about exploring new motorsport grounds and learning and gaining experience along the way. It’s about the challenge and the love of racing, and I’m glad to share that journey with Viaplay’s viewers.”
The series follows the rapid development of Verstappen.com Racing. What begins as an experiment quickly turns into a successful venture, with the team achieving notable results in endurance events. These include strong performances in the 24 Hours of Spa and a dominant run in a 4-hour race on the legendary 24-kilometer Nürburgring Nordschleife, where Verstappen and Lulham have showcased impressive teamwork.
Introducing Chris Lulham
At the heart of the story is Chris Lulham, the young British driver born in 2003 who started in karting before excelling in sim racing. Lulham, who competes under Verstappen.com Racing in series like the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup, represents the bridge between virtual and real-world motorsport.
The docuseries documents Lulham’s journey from sim cockpit to professional GT3 racing, with Verstappen providing guidance, resources, and hands-on involvement. Their collaboration has already produced standout moments, including victories that highlight the potential of blending sim-honed skills with real-track experience.
Episode Breakdown
New episodes drop weekly on Tuesdays:
– Episode 1: “Let’s Go Out and Have Fun” (Released February 10, 2026) — Sets the tone for the adventure and the joy of racing.
– Episode 2: “We All Shit on the Same Toilet” (February 17, 2026) — Likely dives into the raw, behind-the-scenes realities of team life and racing.
– Episode 3: “We Have to Overtake Some People” (February 24, 2026) — Focuses on the competitive drive and on-track battles.
The series is currently available in the Netherlands, Denmark, Sweden, Finland, and Norway via Viaplay.
Why It Matters
Max Verstappen – New Ground stands out because it humanizes one of the greatest drivers of his generation. While F1 fans are accustomed to seeing Verstappen’s clinical precision and fiery personality on the grand prix circuit, this docuseries reveals his entrepreneurial side, his commitment to nurturing talent, and his enduring love for the sport in all its forms.
In an era where F1 drivers often have limited bandwidth for side projects, Verstappen’s investment in his team and in developing drivers like Lulham shows a long-term vision for motorsport. It also appeals to the growing crossover audience between sim racing and professional circuits.
As the 2026 F1 season unfolds—with Verstappen and Red Bull continuing their testing and preparations—this docuseries offers a refreshing parallel narrative. It reminds us that even champions seek new challenges, new grounds to conquer, and new ways to share their passion.
For fans eager to see the human side of Max Verstappen and the inner workings of building a racing team from the ground up, New Ground is essential viewing. Head to Viaplay (where available) to catch the episodes as they drop—and get ready to witness racing beyond the results.
What are your thoughts on Verstappen’s latest venture? Will you be tuning in?