Verstappen to race in 24 Hours of Nurburgring in 2026

Max Verstappen is set to expand his racing portfolio beyond Formula 1, with plans confirmed for him to compete in the legendary 24 Hours of Nurburgring endurance race in 2026. The reigning F1 world champion will join a top-tier GT3 team for the event, marking a significant return to his roots in GT and endurance racing and fulfilling a long-held personal ambition to tackle the iconic Nordschleife circuit in a competitive setting.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's participation brings unprecedented mainstream F1 attention to one of motorsport's most grueling and historic events. It underscores a growing trend of top F1 drivers seeking racing challenges outside their primary discipline, highlighting a passion for pure competition beyond the confines of the grand prix calendar. His presence will significantly elevate the global profile of the event and GT racing as a whole.

The details:

• The race outing is planned for the 2026 edition of the ADAC 24h Nurburgring, held on the daunting 25-kilometer Nordschleife circuit combined with the modern Grand Prix track.
• Verstappen is expected to drive for a factory-backed team operating a current-spec GT3 car, with precise team and manufacturer details to be finalized closer to the event.
• Personal Passion Project: The Dutchman has frequently expressed his deep admiration for the Nurburgring Nordschleife, often sim-racing on the circuit and visiting the event as a spectator. This entry is a direct result of his personal desire to compete there.
• Red Bull Support: The project is understood to have the support of his Red Bull Racing team, fitting within his contract which allows for select outside racing commitments with approval, similar to his past outings in sim racing events and demonstration runs.
• Proven Endurance Pedigree: While best known for his F1 success, Verstappen has prior endurance racing experience from his early career and has consistently shown interest in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

What's next:

Planning and preparation for the 2026 event will begin in earnest, involving simulator work, potential test days at the Nurburgring, and coordination with his chosen team. His entry is likely to inspire other F1 drivers to consider similar cross-discipline challenges.

• The move reinforces Verstappen's identity as a complete racer, not solely defined by F1.
• All eyes will be on his performance, as he adapts from the precision of F1 to the unpredictable, traffic-heavy challenge of a multi-class endurance race on the world's most demanding track.