Max Verstappen is set to make his GT3 race debut this Saturday at the renowned Nordschleife circuit during the Nurburgring Endurance Series (NLS). The four-time Formula 1 world champion will share driving duties in an Emil Frey Ferrari 296 alongside teammate Chris Lulham for the four-hour event at the formidable German track known as ‘The Green Hell.’
Before this GT3 debut, Verstappen competed in a detuned Porsche Cayman GT4 at the same venue to secure the necessary racing permit, enabling him to race in GT3 machinery ahead of his dominant performance at last weekend’s Azerbaijan Grand Prix. His focus now turns to achieving an overall victory on the 12.9-mile Nordschleife, where he has already tested the Ferrari under the pseudonym Franz Hermann in May but will race under his real name at this weekend’s event. The car will feature the Verstappen.com Racing in partnership with Red Bull livery, carrying the #31 number on track.
Verstappen’s Ambition to Conquer the Nurburgring 24 Hours
Participating in the Nordschleife endurance race is a stepping stone toward Verstappen’s long-term ambition to compete in the prestigious Nurburgring 24 Hours, which he plans to attempt in 2026. The Dutch driver expressed his enthusiasm for endurance racing beyond his F1 career, emphasizing the importance of obtaining the right license for these contests.
“My passion is to also do these kind of races,”
said Verstappen following his race in Baku, reflecting on the journey to get cleared for GT3 competition. Max Verstappen, Formula 1 Driver
He praised the organizers for their helpfulness throughout the licensing process, even as he acknowledged the strict regulations. He noted that driving the down-tuned Porsche Cayman GT4 was an interesting challenge, granting him critical experience in various conditions and regulations specific to the Nordschleife.
“The down-tuned car was quite interesting to drive but honestly, very good collaboration. I got to do it in one race where sometimes you need to do it in two. They gave the option to do it in two different cars, so they were very thoughtful, helpful. Supportive as well because for them I think it was great to see,”
Verstappen explained.
He found value in adapting to different weather conditions and learning the unique flag rules at the circuit, which differ from Formula 1 standards. This preparation offered him a solid foundation for his upcoming GT3 competition.
“At the end of the day it doesn’t matter what kind of car you drive around the Nordschleife, it’s always going to be fun when you push it.”
Max Verstappen, Formula 1 Driver
Verstappen conveyed his growing appreciation for racing beyond the Formula 1 arena, highlighting the Nurburgring’s environment as distinctly different but enriching. Despite driving what some might call a “slow” car, he valued the experience for what it taught him.
“I like racing in general also outside of F1. I knew that if I wanted to get my permit I needed to do that race and we just went about, it was all organised very well, they were all very helpful as well from the organisation side,”
he said.
Every lap on the Nordschleife presented variable conditions, providing a unique challenge each time. Verstappen welcomed these nuances as useful lessons for when he returns behind the wheel of a proper GT3 car.
“You try to then focus on other things that might be useful in the future when you go there with a proper car. I had fun, it’s a nice environment to be in, a bit different to F1.”
Max Verstappen, Formula 1 Driver
Preparing to Make an Impact at the Nordschleife
Verstappen’s entry into the Nurburgring Endurance Series carries notable significance, as it offers the reigning world champion a chance to demonstrate his versatility outside Formula 1. The collaboration with Emil Frey Ferrari and teammate Chris Lulham positions Verstappen to capitalize on both his skill and the team’s experience at this demanding venue. The race itself, run under the banner of Verstappen.com Racing alongside Red Bull, is expected to generate considerable attention among motorsport fans eager to see how the F1 star will adapt to the GT3 machinery and the brutal, twisty layout of the Nordschleife.
His move into endurance racing is part of a wider trend among F1 drivers expanding their horizons, but Verstappen’s determined approach and earlier testing runs signal a serious commitment. As he eyes the Nurburgring 24 Hours in the near future, this weekend’s performance will serve as a critical milestone.
The Nordschleife remains one of the most challenging circuits worldwide, demanding precision, adaptability, and endurance. Verstappen’s participation in the NLS race underscores the growing crossover appeal between Formula 1 and other endurance disciplines, increasing the spotlight on this iconic venue and its illustrious history within motorsport. Fans and competitors alike will watch closely to see if Verstappen’s debut will alter the competitive landscape at the track known as ‘The Green Hell.’
