Max Verstappen races Mercedes-AMG at historic Nurburgring 24 Hours
Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen will race a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo at this weekend’s Nurburgring 24 Hours, driving record ticket sales at the historic German circuit.
The Dutchman has swapped his usual Red Bull machinery for the gruelling endurance event starting on Saturday.
His unprecedented participation in one of motorsport’s most prestigious non-F1 events has resulted in a historic first-ever sell-out for weekend tickets.
Rivals relish the ultimate challenge
Fellow GT drivers are eagerly anticipating the chance to share the fearsome Nordschleife track with the current dominant force in global motorsport.
Local specialist Nico Menzel, affectionately known as the ‘Kid of the Ring’, grew up near the circuit and welcomes the intense spotlight.
“Max is a racer – he simply loves racing, and that connects all of us.”
“I don’t think anyone doubts that Max is probably the best driver in the world, maybe even the best we’ve ever seen. To be able to race against him, while he brings so much passion and attracts huge attention to the sport, is incredibly positive.”
Mastering the Green Hell
The 25-kilometre Nordschleife poses an entirely different challenge to modern grand prix circuits.
Endurance racing requires navigating vast grids of mixed-class cars, unpredictable mountain weather, and treacherous night-time driving.
Despite his elite pedigree, the championship leader was forced to secure his qualification on Thursday after earlier disqualifications and mechanical failures disrupted his preparation.
The 26-year-old successfully completed two timed afternoon laps, impressively clocking the third-fastest overall time.
Preparing for the darkness
Track time is crucial ahead of a full-day marathon, and the former karting prodigy utilised later sessions to gain valuable night driving experience.
Heavy rain swept across the region during Thursday evening, presenting perfectly treacherous practice conditions for his planned overnight stints.
While the broader sporting world focuses on the superstar’s presence, competitors remain entirely focused on victory.
“Competing against an active Formula 1 world champion is something special. However, when it comes to racing, it doesn’t matter what car is in front or behind me,” Menzel added.
“If it’s a blue-and-red Mercedes, I’ll try to catch and overtake him. And if he gets big in my mirrors, I’ll try to keep him behind me.”