Max Verstappen is set to step outside the Formula 1 spotlight later this year after receiving approval to compete in the prestigious Nürburgring 24 Hours, driving a Mercedes GT3. The announcement comes amid a turbulent start to his 2026 F1 campaign, where the Dutchman salvaged a sixth-place finish in Australia after beginning the race from the back of the grid following a qualifying crash.
While Verstappen continues to voice strong criticism of Formula 1’s new technical regulations, with discussions about potential rule adjustments expected after the Chinese Grand Prix, the four-time world champion has also expanded his focus beyond the sport. His participation in the iconic Nordschleife endurance event between May 14 and May 17 highlights his growing interest in endurance racing alongside his commitments in Formula 1.
The Dutch driver will join forces with experienced Mercedes factory drivers Lucas Auer and Jules Gounon for the demanding 24-hour challenge. Preparations for the event will begin with a test outing in the Nürburgring Endurance Series, which has been rescheduled at Mercedes’ request to allow Verstappen to take part without conflicting with his Formula 1 calendar.
Verstappen described the Nürburgring as one of the most unique circuits in the world and admitted the legendary endurance race has long been on his personal racing bucket list. Having already secured his Nordschleife permit and claimed victory in a previous endurance series round, he believes the experience gained last season will be invaluable as he prepares for the upcoming challenge.
Support from both Red Bull and Mercedes-AMG Motorsport has played a key role in enabling the project, with Mercedes officials expressing pride in welcoming Verstappen into their GT3 programme. With an extensive testing schedule already underway, the focus now shifts toward fine-tuning preparations and maximizing performance ahead of one of endurance racing’s most demanding events.
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