Verstappen Enters Nurburgring 24 Hours
Max Verstappen will fulfill his goal of competing in this year's Nurburgring 24 Hours endurance race. Verstappen Racing's GT3 entry marks the F1 champion's debut at the legendary German event, adding a new dimension to his motorsport career beyond Formula 1.
An endeavor years in the making, Verstappen's entry into the Nürburgring 24 Hours is the culmination of a long-held ambition. He has been actively preparing, securing his Nordschleife permit and even winning a race in the Nürburgring Endurance Series in 2025. This isn't just a casual outing; it's a serious competitive effort. He will be driving a Mercedes-AMG GT3, notable for its Red Bull livery, under the banner of his own team, Verstappen Racing, with operational support from the experienced Winward Racing team. His teammates are seasoned endurance racers Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon, and Daniel Juncadella, creating a formidable lineup for the grueling event. The race is contested on a monstrous 25.3-kilometer circuit that combines the modern Grand Prix track with the legendary Nordschleife. Nicknamed "The Green Hell" by former F1 champion Jackie Stewart, the Nordschleife is infamous for its relentless nature, boasting over 73 corners, significant elevation changes of around 300 meters, and often unpredictable Eifel mountain weather. Held annually since 1970, the Nürburgring 24 Hours is a true test of driver and machine, attracting a diverse field of over 200 cars, from top-tier GT3 machines to touring cars. The massive grid and the challenging circuit create a unique and demanding environment for all competitors. Verstappen joins a list of Formula 1 drivers who have tested their skills at this legendary endurance race. Past participants include names like Niki Lauda, Johnny Herbert, and Nick Heidfeld, showcasing the event's appeal to racers from the pinnacle of motorsport.
