Max Verstappen is poised to compete in the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours after obtaining his GT3 license, according to Helmut Marko. The four-time Formula 1 world champion earned this permit following his participation in the ADAC ACAS Cup, where he drove a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 CS during the break between the Italian and Azerbaijan Grands Prix.
Verstappen expressed his enthusiasm for endurance racing opportunities, stating,
“To contest a 24-hour race here, in a GT3 car, would be amazing.”
Helmut Marko Highlights Verstappen’s Commitment and Potential Impact
Helmut Marko, advisor to Red Bull Racing, has reinforced the expectation that Verstappen will be a serious contender in the 2026 Nürburgring endurance event. Speaking to ORF at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Marko praised Verstappen’s passion and professionalism, noting his rare dedication compared to other drivers transitioning to endurance racing after leaving Formula 1.
Marko remarked,
“I think it’s fantastic that someone who is still active in Formula 1 is doing this. The others who moved into endurance racing had all already left their F1 commitments behind.”
He also emphasized Verstappen’s methodical approach:
“The enthusiasm with which he’s doing it shows that for him, racing truly is everything. And the way he takes on these bureaucratic hurdles in Germany with such composure—he’s sure to prepare himself extremely well. And in the 24 Hours, he will certainly be a factor in the fight for victory.”
Official Confirmation and Preparations Underway
Marko has gone further to confirm Verstappen’s entry from the team’s perspective, while remaining cautiously optimistic about finalizing all details. He explained,
“From our side, it’s confirmed. And I believe from his side as well. But let’s see what else happens. That’s the way it is with him… he’s already driven thousands of laps in the simulator.”
Reflecting on Verstappen’s preparation, Marko added,
“He’s preparing meticulously, but also with joy. And I believe for endurance racing, it’s an incredible boost when a four-time world champion puts himself on the grid. Back in our day, we would have been thrilled.”
Verstappen’s Current Racing Status and Future Outlook
This announcement comes during the Formula 1 race weekend in Baku, where Verstappen aims to build on his recent victory in Monza. Currently holding third place in the drivers’ standings with 230 points, he trails the leader, Oscar Piastri, by 94 points. Despite his commitments in Formula 1, Verstappen’s interest in endurance racing shows a broader pursuit in his motorsport career.
His venture into the Nürburgring 24 Hours could signify an important step for drivers balancing top-level Formula 1 racing with endurance events, potentially encouraging others to explore similar paths.
