Max Verstappen to Compete in Nordschleife NLS2 Race with Mercedes GT3

Max Verstappen is trading his Red Bull F1 car for a Mercedes-AMG GT3 to compete in the NLS2 race at the legendary Nordschleife circuit. The three-time world champion will share the car with factory drivers Jules Gounon and Dani Juncadella, using the event as a crucial test session ahead of his planned debut in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in May.

Why it matters:

For Verstappen, this race is a significant step in his preparation for one of motorsport's most demanding endurance events. His participation highlights the growing crossover between Formula 1 and top-level GT racing, bringing immense spotlight to the Nürburgring Endurance Series. While victory is always the goal, gathering valuable data and seat time on the treacherous 25-kilometer circuit is the primary objective for his team.

The details:

• The Team & Car: Verstappen is driving for the Scherer Sport PHX team in the Pro class, piloting the #5 Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO.
• Co-Drivers: He is partnered with two of Mercedes-AMG's top GT specialists. Jules Gounon is a reigning Nürburgring 24h winner and Dani Juncadella is a highly experienced factory driver.
• The Event: The NLS2 (also known as the 47th DMV 4h Race) is a four-hour endurance race on the full Nordschleife layout combined with the Grand Prix track.
• The Objective: This race serves as an essential shakedown and practice run. The focus is on Verstappen acclimating to traffic, night driving, and the unique challenges of the 'Green Hell' in a competitive environment before the main 24-hour event.
• Qualifying Performance: Verstappen has already shown strong pace, securing a front-row starting position for his car, demonstrating a quick adaptation to the GT3 machine and the circuit.

What's next:

All eyes will be on Verstappen's performance and reliability throughout the four-hour race. Success here will build momentum and confidence for his ultimate goal: a competitive run at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in May. A strong showing could encourage more F1 drivers to explore iconic endurance races, further blurring the lines between single-seater and sports car disciplines.