Max Verstappen will be able to compete in this year’s Nürburgring 24 Hours after the Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) adjusted its calendar to accommodate the four-time world champion. This change allows Verstappen to participate in a key preparatory event without conflicting with his demanding Formula 1 schedule, a relief he openly welcomes after fearing he might miss the race.
The rescheduling came in part due to Mercedes executives’ intervention, enabling Verstappen to drive a Mercedes-AMG GT3 in the event. The NLS race originally set for March 28, which clashed with the Japanese Grand Prix, was moved to March 21, fitting neatly between the Formula 1 rounds in China and Japan.
Verstappen Appreciates Organisers’ Flexibility and Prepares for New Challenges
For Verstappen, gaining extra experience on the Nürburgring’s iconic Nordschleife circuit is crucial, despite having earned his required racing license last September. He emphasized the importance of thorough preparation when tackling such a demanding track, especially in a new type of GT3 car.
“I’d really like to do this. We’re working hard to make it happen,”
Verstappen said, sharing his eagerness through Auto, Motor und Sport.
“It’s fantastic that the organisers changed the date. I need at least one race as preparation. When you’re driving a car that you’ve never taken around the Nordschleife before, it’s simply crucial for getting all the procedures right.”
Avoiding Formula 1 Calendar Conflicts and Gaining Pit-Stop Experience
Another aspect Verstappen is focused on is mastering pit-lane routines, which differ significantly from his regular Formula 1 experience where driver swaps during stops do not occur. The change to a GT3 race introduces new technical challenges for the Red Bull Racing driver.
“Normally, I don’t do driver swaps during a pit stop. It’s those little details that I need to nail down,”
he explained.
The Nürburgring 24 Hours, scheduled from May 14 to May 17, falls conveniently between the Miami and Canadian Grands Prix. This timing prevents scheduling conflicts, allowing Verstappen to compete without logistical difficulties.
Significance of Verstappen’s Return to the ‘Green Hell’
Verstappen’s previous appearances at the Nürburgring boosted the event’s viewership substantially, and his return is likely to generate significant attention again. With the updated racing calendar and the support of Mercedes, the Dutchman is poised to deliver a memorable performance on the legendary Eifel circuit.
The seamless alignment of his Formula 1 commitments and the NLS race schedules enhances his preparation for upcoming seasons, while also adding excitement for fans of endurance racing and Formula 1 alike.
