Max Verstappen to race Mercedes-AMG GT3 on the Nordschleife in key NLS prep

Max Verstappen will make his competitive debut on the Nürburgring Nordschleife in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 this weekend, a crucial preparatory step for his upcoming 24-hour race campaign. The outing marks a significant shift for Verstappen Racing, which has switched from being a Ferrari-supported team to a factory-backed Mercedes-AMG outfit for the 2026 season. His focus will be on learning the car and track in race conditions alongside teammates Lucas Auer, Dani Juncadella, and Jules Gounon.

Why it matters:

This event is more than just another race for Verstappen; it's a vital shakedown of his new, factory-supported Mercedes-AMG machinery on one of the world's most demanding circuits. A strong performance and reliable running would validate his team's calculated switch from Ferrari and build crucial momentum ahead of the marquee Nürburgring 24 Hours in May, where an outright victory is the clear target.

The details:

• Verstappen will contest the second round of the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS2) as part of his build-up for the 24-hour race later this year.
• He joins a formidable driver lineup with Lucas Auer, Dani Juncadella, and Jules Gounon, forming a crew capable of challenging for the overall win.
• Team Switch: The 2026 season sees Verstappen Racing transition from a Ferrari customer team to an official Mercedes-AMG Performance Team, a strategic move to gain factory support and a proven platform.
• The Learning Curve: Despite previous tests, this will be Verstappen's first time driving the Mercedes-AMG GT3 on the Nordschleife in a competitive environment, requiring him to adapt his style to the car's characteristics on this unique track.
• Car Philosophy: The team's switch to Mercedes is seen as a move towards a more stable, predictable, and reliable GT3 package, known for strong tyre management—key assets for endurance racing success.

What's next:

The primary goal for NLS2 is data gathering and team integration, not necessarily a podium finish. Every lap provides valuable insight into car setup, tire behavior, and driver coordination.

• Success this weekend will be measured in clean running, consistent pace, and progress in fine-tuning the car for the four-driver lineup.
• All learnings will feed directly into the preparation for the Nürburgring 24 Hours in May, where Verstappen Racing aims to arrive with a fully optimized package to contend for the biggest prize in GT3 endurance racing.