Max Verstappen fought back from 24th to ninth at the GT World Challenge after his hopes of a podium finish were derailed by a drive-through penalty.
A week after claiming his second consecutive Formula One victory in as many races at the Singapore Grand Prix, the four-time world champion was back in the cockpit, this time for a three-hour endurance event in Portugal.
- 'Chucky' Verstappen is back. Luckily for Antonelli and Mercedes, it's too late
Verstappen's teammate, British driver Ben Barnicoat, delivered an encouraging opening stint to move up five places from 13th on the grid.
He handed over to compatriot Chris Lulham who progressed to sixth at the Portimao circuit in the Algarve, which will return to the F1 calendar next season.
However, Lulham was hit with a drive-through penalty when he sent Luca Stolz spinning as they duelled for fifth place.
Lulham served his sanction before Verstappen assumed driving duties, but the Dutchman's team were now out of contention and in 24th -- with only 45 minutes left.
However, Verstappen charged to 15th with a quarter of an hour remaining, and he then managed to make up another six places before the chequered flag following an impressive cameo.
Verstappen will be bidding to make it a hat-trick of F1 victories when he returns to his Red Bull at next weekend's United States Grand Prix in Austin.
