Nürburgring 24 Hours lifts team limit ahead of classic race

The Nürburgring 24 Hours has lifted its 150-team entry ceiling, opening the grid to all 161 applicants that signed up for May's endurance classic. Organisers said the move rewards teams that have already committed resources to the Green Hell, and it guarantees a star-studded start line that includes Red Bull's Max Verstappen.

Why it matters:

• It ensures teams that have invested in logistics, cars and driver line-ups get a chance to race, preserving the event's credibility.
• A fuller field raises competition, making the race more exciting for fans and broadcasters.
• Verstappen's participation draws global attention, potentially boosting sponsorship and viewership for endurance racing.

The details:

• Entry limit increased from 150 to an unrestricted number, effectively accepting all 161 entries.
• The oversubscription initially triggered a selection process, now cancelled.
• Official entry list will be published later this week, confirming the final grid.
• The race runs on May 16-17, the second event of the big four classic endurance calendar after Le Mans and Spa.
• Teams will need to adapt pit-lane allocations and pit-stop schedules to accommodate the larger roster.

What's next:

• Teams finalize car preparations and driver line-ups ahead of the May weekend.
• Organisers will monitor safety and track capacity to ensure the expanded grid runs smoothly.
• Fans can expect a packed grid and heightened media coverage, especially with Verstappen's high-profile debut in endurance racing.