Three-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen takes part in a 4-hour race at the Nürburgring in preparation for the 24 Hours

The three-time world champion of Fórmula 1 The event, called 58. ADAC The race starts at 12pm local time on Alemanha, after the classification session held in the morning between 8:30am and 10am.

Verstappen shares the Mercedes-AMG GT3 with experienced endurance drivers, in an arrangement in line with the Mercedes. The participation received approval from the automaker’s top management, including the CEO Ola Källenius and the team leader of Fórmula 1 Toto Wolff. The main objective is to accumulate mileage and experience on the 20.8 km track before the greater 24-hour challenge.

The NLS offers a competitive environment with different categories of vehicles, from GT3 to touring cars. The Nordschleife demands total precision due to its varied curves, steep climbs and descents, which make each lap a real test for riders and machines. Verstappen has completed previous stages on the track in past years, but this is a new phase focusing on high-performance GT3s.

Intense preparation for the 24 Horas

The 4-hour race represents a strategic step in the Verstappen agenda. Ele seeks to fulfill license and circuit adaptation requirements ahead of the main event in May. The endurance format demands management of tires, fuel and driver changes, aspects that differ from the short races of Fórmula 1.

The Mercedes-AMG GT3 chosen for the test offers balance and power compatible with the demands of the Nordschleife. The team adjusted the setup to prioritize consistency throughout the laps, considering the heavy traffic of slower cars on the track.

Verstappen has recent experience in categories outside of Fórmula 1, which makes the transition to this type of race easier. Participation reinforces your interest in varied challenges in motorsport.

Schedule and broadcast details

The journey at the Nürburgring started early on Saturday. The classification defined the starting grid, with a focus on fast and clean laps to avoid incidents. The gridwalk took place between 11:10am and 11:30am, allowing spectators to observe the cars and drivers in the paddock.

The live broadcast covers from qualifying to the end of the race, lasting several hours in total. The free stream provides images from the track and expert commentary to follow the performance of Verstappen and the other competitors.

The event attracts global attention due to the presence of Fórmula driver 1. Fãs closely follows the performance on a legendary circuit known for its difficulty and weather unpredictability.

Experience accumulated at Nordschleife

Verstappen has already driven the Nordschleife in previous commitments, gaining familiarity with the route. Essas preview laps helped understand the track’s peculiarities, such as elevation changes and high-speed sections.

Adapting to the Mercedes-AMG GT3 involved recent test sessions. The car provides different feedback from single-seaters, with greater emphasis on traction and stability in long curves.

The Dutchman remains focused on learning from each stint. The race serves to refine strategies that will be applied in the longer endurance race.

Alignment with Mercedes and future goals

Collaboration with Mercedes allows Verstappen to access advanced technical resources. The agreement facilitates integration between the Fórmula 1 and GT teams, benefiting the development of the car.

The preparation aims to not only complete the race, but extract valuable data for May. The team analyzes real-time telemetry for future adjustments.

Verstappen expresses satisfaction at competing in different formats. The experience enriches your career and broadens horizons in motorsport.

Track action and expectations

The grid has dozens of cars in various classes. The start at 12pm begins an intense battle for position, with frequent overtaking on the straights and strong braking.

Verstappen alternates stints with his teammates. Cada pilot contributes his expertise to maintain a constant pace and avoid mistakes.

The circuit requires full attention. Pequenas failures can compromise the final result in a long-term test.

Track conditions and deciding factors

The climate in the Eifel region influences performance. Temperaturas mild weather and possible humidity alter the grip of the tires over the hours.

Teams monitor conditions in real time. Estratégias pit stops adapt to possible changes to maintain competitiveness.

The focus remains on precise execution. Cada complete lap adds important data for planning the 24 Horas.

The 4-hour race at the Nürburgring marks the return of Max Verstappen to the German track in 2026. The event reinforces its preparation for greater challenges in endurance, with the Mercedes-AMG GT3 as its main tool. The NLS continues to attract elite pilots interested in the Nordschleife.