How to view Max versus 100

Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen is taking on a fresh challenge today (Wednesday, September 16) as he faces off against 100 go-karters at Silverstone.

This event, organized by Red Bull, is being referred to as ‘Max vs 100’ and features the Dutch driver competing against athletes, celebrities, content creators, and enthusiastic fans.

“In go-karts, you grasp all the fundamentals: starts, defending, overtaking,” Verstappen remarked. “Naturally, I spent a significant part of my life in go-karting, so it’s always enjoyable to come back,”

“It revolves around comprehending the grip of the go-kart. After so many years in go-karting, you instinctively slip back into it.”

Here’s everything you need to know about the event.

How will Max vs 100 operate?

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Verstappen will begin from the rear of a 101-kart race and has 30 laps - or a maximum of 55-75 minutes - to surpass his 100 competitors to claim victory. The starting order for the amateur drivers will be set through qualifying - 2:20pm local time - where each go-karters has one flying lap, divided into five segments of 20 drivers.

This event is taking place on a specially designed kart track layout at Silverstone, and each time a driver is passed by the four-time F1 champion, they are eliminated from the contest, which means it could potentially conclude before reaching the full 30 laps.

The amateur participants will have some support, as at any point during the first half of the event they can use what’s known as a ‘fast lap’, allowing them to take a shortcut on the track to create some distance from Verstappen. However, in the final 15 laps, only Verstappen will have access to the ‘fast lap’ option.

This is the only edge any driver will possess, since all karts are identical and weigh 85kg with all components included. Verstappen will also be able to communicate directly with his opponents via radio.

Max vs 100 will be broadcast live on ESPN through Disney+, which is a commercial partner of Red Bull. Qualifying - from 2:20pm to 3:50pm local time - will not be aired, but the race will, commencing at 6pm local time, with a pre-event show starting at 5pm.

Comedian Mo Gilligan will host the broadcast, and it’s sure to evoke a strong Mario Kart vibe, as the presentation will feature game-inspired graphics and cinematic drone footage.

Who will participate in Max vs 100?

Silverstone Circuit

The participant list for Max vs 100 has been unveiled, showcasing a diverse array of personalities including British content creators like Zac Alsop and Jack McDermott - known professionally as Pieface - 2019 Love Island champion Amber Gill, and ultramarathon runner Arda Saatci.