Max Verstappen makes his much-anticipated debut in the GT3 category at Germany’s legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife today, marking a key moment as he broadens his racing pursuits beyond Formula 1. The four-hour endurance race, part of the Nurburgring Endurance Series (NLS), begins at 11 a.m. UK time with live coverage available via Sky Sports F1’s YouTube channel, starting from 10:15 a.m.
Verstappen Joins the Nürburgring Endurance Series in a Ferrari 296 GT3
The four-time reigning Formula 1 world champion’s entry into the NLS, which features over 100 cars, has attracted significant attention. Verstappen has been gradually preparing for the Nordschleife, having earned his GT3 race license two weeks ago after driving a Porsche GT4. Now, he returns to the 12.9-mile circuit, famously nicknamed ‘The Green Hell,’ behind the wheel of a Ferrari 296 GT3.
He tested this Ferrari earlier in May under the alias Franz Hermann, accompanied by his teammate Chris Lulham, a young British driver aged 22 who races for Verstappen’s own squad, Verstappen.com Racing, in the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup. Their car will sport the distinctive Verstappen.com Racing x Red Bull livery, reflecting Verstappen’s involvement in motorsport both in real and sim racing since 2022.
What Verstappen Says About His Passion for GT3 Racing
Expressing his enthusiasm, Verstappen shared on his official website,
“It is my passion to do these kinds of GT3 races too. I can’t wait!”
Max Verstappen, F1 World Champion
He added,
“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.”
Max Verstappen, F1 World Champion
Looking Ahead to the Nürburgring 24 Hours and Beyond
Verstappen has a clear goal in mind for the future of his endurance racing career. He revealed,
“My dream is to eventually participate in the 24-hour race at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.”
Max Verstappen, F1 World Champion
This dream may soon become attainable, as next year’s Nürburgring 24 Hours is scheduled for May 14-17, fitting conveniently between the Miami and Canadian Grands Prix in the Formula 1 calendar. Verstappen’s increasing focus on endurance racing echoes the journey of Sky Sports F1’s Martin Brundle, who six years ago obtained his Nordschleife license and competed in Permit A races, including alongside his son Alex.
Verstappen’s Upcoming Formula 1 Campaign and Title Pursuit
After his GT3 endurance challenge, Verstappen will return to Formula 1 competition in Singapore. The street circuit around Marina Bay hosts the lighting-intensive Grand Prix from October 3 to 5, where Verstappen aims to reduce the 69-point gap to McLaren’s championship leader Oscar Piastri and achieve his first win on this demanding track.
The 2025 F1 season remains tightly contested, and Verstappen’s participation in diverse racing disciplines underscores his broad racing ambitions and dedication. Fans worldwide will be watching his Nordschleife debut closely, as it could signal further ventures into endurance and GT racing alongside his primary F1 career.
