Max Verstappen to Make Mercedes GT3 Race Debut at Nurburgring

Max Verstappen will make his competitive debut in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 this weekend at the Nurburgring, a key preparatory step for his upcoming entry in the iconic 24-hour endurance race in May. The Red Bull F1 driver will join a four-man lineup for the NLS2 event, marking his first race appearance in Mercedes machinery amidst a challenging start to his 2026 Formula 1 season.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's participation bridges the worlds of elite single-seater racing and top-tier GT competition, highlighting a top driver's pursuit of racing passion outside F1. It also represents a notable collaboration between the Verstappen Racing team and Mercedes, adding an intriguing subplot given the recent history of speculation linking the driver to the Mercedes F1 team. His performance will be closely watched as both a barometer for his 24-hour race prospects and as a point of contrast to his current F1 struggles.

The details:

• The Debut Event: Verstappen will compete in the NLS2 race at the Nurburgring this Saturday. Although he has tested the Mercedes-AMG GT3 before, this will be his first official race with the car and the team.
• The 24-Hour Campaign: This race serves as crucial preparation for the main event: the Nurburgring 24 Hours, scheduled for May 14-17 between the Miami and Canadian Grands Prix.
• The Team: He will drive a Red Bull-branded Mercedes-AMG GT3 as part of a lineup with factory drivers Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon, and Daniel Juncadella.
• Logistical Coordination: The race date was reportedly moved forward by a week from its original March 28 slot to avoid a clash with the Japanese Grand Prix, explicitly to accommodate Verstappen's participation and capitalize on the global attention his entry brings.
• F1 Context: The move occurs against the backdrop of a difficult start to 2026 for Verstappen with Red Bull, including a retirement in China, and amid public comments from Mercedes F1 boss Toto Wolff about the challenging nature of the Red Bull RB22.

What's next:

All eyes will be on Verstappen's adaptability and speed in the GT3 car this weekend, which will set the tone for his Nurburgring 24 Hours campaign. A strong showing could provide a timely confidence boost. Meanwhile, the F1 world will watch to see if his foray into GT racing with a Mercedes partner influences the long-term driver market narrative, even as he focuses on reversing his fortunes with Red Bull in the upcoming rounds of the championship.