Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen is expanding his racing horizons, confirming his participation in the grueling Nürburgring 24 Hours endurance race this May. The Red Bull Racing driver, currently competing in the 2026 F1 season, will take the wheel of a Mercedes-AMG GT3 car, uniquely branded with Red Bull Racing livery, for the event held at the legendary 15.8-mile circuit in the Eifel mountains of Germany.
The announcement marks a significant step for the Dutch driver, fulfilling a long-held ambition. “The Nürburgring Nordschleife is a special place,” Verstappen said, according to Formula 1. “There’s no other track like it. The 24h Nürburgring is a race that’s been on my bucket list for a long time, so I’m really thrilled You can make it happen now.”
Verstappen’s entry into the Nürburgring 24 Hours is a rare move for a top-tier Formula 1 driver, but it reflects his passion for motorsport beyond the pinnacle of the sport. He has previously demonstrated his affinity for sportscar racing, winning his first GT3 event in the Nürburgring Endurance Series in September 2025, driving a Ferrari with Chris Lulham. Red Bull notes that this participation underscores “his love for racing and his continued push to test the limits of driving.”
The Mercedes-AMG GT3 car will be fielded by Winward Racing and Verstappen will prepare for the iconic race by entering NLS2 on March 21, using the number 3 – mirroring his Formula 1 entry number this season. Sky Sports reports that Verstappen will not miss any Formula 1 race weekends to accommodate this commitment.
Preparing for the “Green Hell”
The Nürburgring Nordschleife, often nicknamed “The Green Hell,” presents a unique challenge even for seasoned racers. The 15.7-mile layout combines the modern grand prix circuit with the notoriously demanding Nordschleife, featuring challenging banked corners, blind crests, and limited run-off areas. Verstappen gained valuable experience on the track last year, obtaining his DMSB Permit Nordschleife and participating in NLS9, which he won. This prior experience will be crucial as he prepares for the 24-hour endurance test.
Verstappen will share driving duties with a strong lineup of co-drivers: Spain’s Dani Juncadella, Andorra’s Jules Gounon, and Austria’s Lucas Auer. The Nürburgring 24 Hours is scheduled to take place on May 16-17, falling between the Formula 1 Miami and Canadian Grand Prix races.
Expanding into Endurance Racing
The Nürburgring 24 Hours is considered a stepping stone to other prestigious endurance races, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans, part of the World Endurance Championship. The WEC recently announced a postponement of its season-opening Qatar 1812km race, ESPN reports, but the series remains a key target for many drivers seeking to expand their racing careers. The growing popularity of endurance racing, fueled by fresh ‘hypercar’ regulations attracting manufacturers like Ferrari, Peugeot, Aston Martin, and Ford, is creating new opportunities for drivers like Verstappen.
Verstappen’s current contract with Red Bull Racing extends through 2028. While he has been previously linked with a potential move to the Mercedes F1 program, his participation in the Nürburgring 24 Hours with a Red Bull-branded Mercedes demonstrates a collaborative approach between the two teams.
The upcoming NLS2 race on March 21 will provide Verstappen with further seat time and preparation for the main event in May. Fans can expect a thrilling display of skill and endurance as the four-time F1 champion tackles one of the most challenging races in the world.
What comes next for Verstappen will be a busy schedule balancing his Formula 1 commitments with preparations for the Nürburgring 24 Hours. The race promises to be a captivating spectacle for motorsport enthusiasts, showcasing Verstappen’s versatility and determination. Share your thoughts on Verstappen’s new challenge in the comments below!
