Verstappen Eyes 2026 Nürburgring 24h After Nordschleife Permit Attempt

Why it matters

Max Verstappen is taking significant steps towards competing in the prestigious Nürburgring 24 Hours, potentially as early as 2026, by attempting to secure his mandatory Nordschleife Permit this weekend. This move highlights his ambition beyond Formula 1 and passion for endurance racing.

The big picture

Verstappen, a four-time world champion, visited the legendary German circuit to complete the required training and obtain the Nordschleife Permit. This permit is essential for participating in the NLS (Nürburgring Endurance Series) and is a prerequisite for his ultimate goal of racing a GT3 car on the demanding track.

The details

• Permit Acquisition: Verstappen is undergoing both practical on-track assessment and a theoretical exam to qualify for the Nordschleife Permit.
• First Race: If successful, he plans to race this weekend in a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 CS for the Lionspeed GP team.
• Ultimate Goal: His stated ambition is to compete in the GT3 class, specifically with a Ferrari 296 GT3 from Emil Frey Racing.
• 2026 Possibility: The 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours, scheduled for May 14–17, does not clash with the provisional Formula 1 calendar. The Miami GP is in early May, followed by a three-week F1 break before the Canadian GP on May 22–24, making participation feasible for the Red Bull driver.

Verstappen's ambition

Verstappen openly expressed his enthusiasm for the challenge. "Racing is not just my profession, but also my hobby," he stated via Verstappen.com. "This weekend I am at the Nordschleife with the goal to qualify for the mandatory race permit needed to race here in a GT3 car, which I would love." He emphasized the Nordschleife's allure: "The Nordschleife is at the top of my list of tracks I want to race on, as it’s extremely challenging and demanding, with its enormous length and tight historic layout. I can’t wait!”