Verstappen Prepares for Nordschleife GT4 Debut; Ricciardo Returns to F1 Paddock with Ford

Verstappen Prepares for Nordschleife GT4 Debut

Why it matters: Fresh off his Italian Grand Prix triumph, four-time world champion Max Verstappen is immediately pursuing his passion for endurance racing, working towards a goal of competing in the GT3 class. This marks a significant step for the F1 champion into a different motorsport discipline.

The details:

• Verstappen visited the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit to complete mandatory training for the DMSB Permit Nordschleife.
• This permit is essential for participation in the renowned NLS (Nürburgring Endurance Series).
• If successful in both practical and theoretical assessments, he is set to race this weekend in a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 CS for the Lionspeed GP team.
• This GT4 entry is a declared stepping stone towards his ultimate ambition of racing in GT3.

Ricciardo Returns to F1 Paddock as Ford Ambassador

The big picture: After leaving Formula 1, Daniel Ricciardo is set to make a high-profile return to the paddock, this time as an ambassador for Ford, which is re-entering F1 in 2026. This move bridges his past with Red Bull and Ford's future partnership.

What happened:

• Ricciardo left Formula 1 after being replaced by Liam Lawson at the 2024 Singapore Grand Prix, announcing his retirement from racing a few months later.
• He has now been confirmed as a Ford ambassador, signifying a return to the broader Red Bull family through Ford's collaboration.
• Ford will return to the world of F1 after a 22-year absence, partnering with Red Bull for their powertrain development for the 2026 season.

What they're saying:

• Red Bull team principal Laurent Mekies expressed excitement: "I'm sure everybody will love to see Daniel back in the paddock, and we are going to perhaps have that thanks to Ford Racing."