Max Verstappen set for Nurburgring 24 Hours preparation race in 2026

Max Verstappen is now expected to contest a key preparatory race for the 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours, moving him a significant step closer to competing in the legendary endurance event. The four-time F1 world champion is slated to drive a Mercedes-AMG GT3 for the Winward team in the four-hour NLS2 race on March 21, 2026, a date specifically moved to fit his Formula 1 schedule.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's potential participation in the 'Green Hell' classic is a major crossover event, blending the pinnacle of single-seater racing with one of motorsport's most grueling endurance challenges. For Mercedes-AMG, securing the reigning F1 champion—who drives for rival Red Bull in F1—would be a massive coup, ending a decade-long winless streak at their home event. For Verstappen, it represents a passionate pursuit outside F1, testing his skills on one of the world's most demanding tracks.

The details:

• Schedule Alignment: The Nurburgring Endurance Series (NLS) rescheduled its second round by one week to March 21, 2026, placing it between the F1 races in China and Japan, to accommodate Verstappen's only possible preparation window.
• Team and Teammates: Verstappen will drive for the Winward team, with experienced engineer Thomas Gleibs assigned to his car. His likely co-drivers for both the NLS2 and the 24-hour race include DTM runner-up Lucas Auer, his confidant Daniel Juncadella, and Mercedes works driver Jules Gounon.
• Opportunity Window: The driver lineup became possible due to the postponement of the World Endurance Championship's (WEC) opening round in Qatar, freeing up Juncadella and Gounon.
• Verstappen's Prerequisite: The Dutchman has publicly stated he would need a preparatory race before attempting the 24-hour event, especially in a new car like the Mercedes-AMG GT3, to learn procedures and the treacherous Nordschleife circuit.
• Contingency Plans: While a basic agreement is believed to be in place, the final commitment for the May 24-hour race remains conditional. Unpredictable Eifel region weather or other factors could still lead to a cancellation of the NLS2 start, which Verstappen views as essential.

What's next:

All signs point toward Verstappen making his Nurburgring 24 Hours debut in 2026. The stars have aligned with a rare calendar gap, available top-tier teammates, and a willing manufacturer in Mercedes-AMG. The preparatory race in March will be the final proving ground. If it goes ahead, the stage will be set for one of the most intriguing driver appearances in recent endurance racing history, with Verstappen aiming to make history for himself and end a long victory drought for the Silver Arrows at their home race.