While the Formula 1 calendar takes a break, reigning world champion Max Verstappen is staying fully engaged by competing in the ninth round of the Nurburgring Endurance Series (NLS). The Dutch driver piloted the No. 31 Ferrari 296 GT3 during qualifying at the iconic Nurburgring Nordschleife, aiming to secure a strong starting position for the endurance race held later that day.
Qualifying sessions faced a 30-minute delay at the start due to thick fog covering the circuit, which initially disrupted the drivers’ planned runs. Once the weather improved, Verstappen and the other competitors quickly accelerated their pace, battling for pole despite the tricky conditions. Using intermediate tires, Verstappen initially held the provisional pole position. However, when the switch to slick tires came, his lap time fell short, and he ultimately qualified third behind the #34 Aston Martin Vantage GT3 Evo and the #8 Audi R8 LMS GT3.
Despite finishing third, Verstappen’s best lap was only a bit more than three seconds off the pole time, completing a circuit in 8:09.126 minutes while navigating some traffic on his final lap. Reflecting on his qualifying performance, Verstappen shared:
“It actually went really well on the intermediates, the car was running super.”
—Max Verstappen, Racing Driver
“It’s not easy to time your run well here. On my last lap, I ran into way too much traffic to make a good lap. But everything is going really well. The tyres are good, so I believe that normally in the race everything should still be possible.”
—Max Verstappen, Racing Driver
Max Verstappen’s teammate for this event is Christopher Lulham, and together they look to capitalize on their qualifying position as the race progresses.
Verstappen’s Enthusiasm for GT3 Racing at Nurburgring
Earlier this year, Max Verstappen completed a test run at the demanding Nurburgring Nordschleife in a GT3 car, which clearly fueled his decision to compete in the NLS during offseason breaks from Formula 1 in 2025. This willingness to explore different racing formats highlights Verstappen’s passion beyond F1.
Discussing his aspirations, Verstappen stated:
“It is my passion to do these kinds of GT3 races too. I can’t wait! I’m passionate about racing, also outside of Formula 1. Every lap at the Nordschleife is a different kind of experience. The atmosphere is also really good and there are a lot of endurance fans present. It’s my hobby to race in other categories than Formula 1. My dream is to eventually participate in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.”
—Max Verstappen, Racing Driver
The Nurburgring endurance event began at noon Central European Time, marking an exciting chapter for Verstappen as he continues to diversify his racing portfolio and engage with endurance racing fans worldwide.
The Meaning Behind Verstappen’s Nurburgring Endurance Series Debut
Verstappen’s involvement in the NLS not only demonstrates his unrelenting dedication to motorsport but also his desire to broaden his skill set on one of the world’s most challenging circuits. By earning his DMSB permit to compete in GT3 races, he has opened the door to participating in endurance events that require stamina, consistency, and strategic teamwork—qualities essential in addition to sheer speed.
For endurance fans and followers of the racing world, Verstappen’s presence in the series brings fresh excitement and raises the profile of the Nurburgring Endurance Series itself. This crossover between top-tier Formula 1 talent and GT3 racing highlights the growing appeal of endurance racing as a platform for versatile drivers.
Looking ahead, Verstappen’s ambition to enter the 24 Hours of Nürburgring aligns perfectly with his current NLS experience, setting a clear path for what could be a landmark career that spans beyond traditional Formula 1 competition. Motorsport writer Geetansh Pasricha notes that such moves enrich the racing community by bridging fans from different disciplines and fostering greater enthusiasm across endurance and single-seater racing arenas.
