Verstappen heads to Nordschleife
Max Verstappen will race a Mercedes at the Nürburgring Nordschleife on March 21 as prep for the 24‑hour classic — fans can catch the live stream ahead of the endurance event. He’s also been vocal about the 2026 F1 energy rules, blasting the format as a ‘Mario Kart’ style game where battery deployment dictates overtakes, a critique sparking heated debate among pundits. ( )
Verstappen will line up for the NLS2 support race as part of his Nürburgring build‑up but will not contest the season‑opening NLS1 because that round clashes with the Chinese Grand Prix in Shanghai. (speedcafe.com) The entry is a Mercedes‑AMG GT3 Evo run in partnership with Winward Racing under the Verstappen Racing banner and will carry Verstappen’s race number 3 and Red Bull‑styled livery. (news.verstappen.com) Verstappen’s announced co‑drivers for the 24‑hour entry are Dani Juncadella, Jules Gounon and Lucas Auer, creating a four‑man crew for the Winward/Verstappen entry. (motorsport.com) The Nürburgring 24 Hours is scheduled across May 14–17 with official 24‑hour qualifiers set for April 18–19, and the NLS rounds are being used as the official lead‑up programme for teams seeking race‑time on the Nordschleife. (motorsport.com) Live coverage of Verstappen’s NLS appearance will be carried via the NLS live feeds (reported on Speedcafe and the official NLS YouTube channels), while the full 24‑hour race is slated for coverage on Red Bull TV and Red Bull Motorsports’ YouTube channel. (speedcafe.com) Verstappen’s recent criticism of F1’s 2026 rule package — likening races to “Mario Kart” and arguing battery‑deployment mechanics now decide many overtakes — was voiced during the FIA press conference in Shanghai and has been repeated in post‑race media sessions. (racingnewstoday.com) The comments have sparked sharp responses inside the paddock, including former race winner Juan Pablo Montoya urging a stronger stance against drivers who “disrespect” the sport, while FIA single‑seater director Nikolas Tombazis has said the governing body is listening to driver feedback and may consider adjustments. (msn.com)
