Nürburgring 24 Hours 12Hr report: Max Verstappen retains lead after huge 270km/h scare

Max Verstappen survived a massive scare at the Nürburgring 24 Hours when he made contact with Maro Engel at 270km/h, yet continues to lead after 12 hours. The four-time F1 champion is driving the #3 Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG GT3 and holds a narrow advantage over the sister car.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's participation adds star power to the endurance classic, and his performance underlines his versatility. The incident with Engel could have ended his race, but his composure kept him in contention for victory, highlighting the fine margins in GT racing.

The details:

• Contact occurred on the Döttinger Höhe straight as Verstappen approached slower cars. Engel moved right, Verstappen moved left, causing side-to-side contact at ~270km/h.
• Engel was forced onto the grass but held on, rejoining in second place without further incident.
• Verstappen had taken the lead earlier in his stint after a strong opening from the four-time world champion. He built a 1.5s gap before Engel closed back in.
• After the incident, Verstappen remained in the #3 car while Engel pitted and handed over to another driver.
• Standings after 12 hours: #3 Winward Racing Mercedes leads, #80 Winward Racing second (+5.175s), #34 Walkenhorst Aston Martin third (1 lap down), #99 ROWE BMW fourth (+2:38), and #81 BMW M3 Touring fifth.

What's next:

With 12 hours remaining, Verstappen aims to extend his lead and secure an overall victory. However, traffic, night conditions, and driver changes will test the team's strategy. The Red Bull-backed Lamborghini (#84) sits sixth and could mount a challenge in the second half.