Four-time Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen is preparing to take on a unique challenge outside of F1, as he gears up to compete in a 24-hour endurance race at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife next month—an event many have described as “bizarre.”
Verstappen secured the special permit required to race on the famously demanding “Green Hell” circuit last year, and quickly made an impression by winning on his GT3 debut. More recently, he returned for an NLS2 race as part of his preparation for the prestigious Nürburgring 24 Hours in May. Although he and his team initially achieved a dominant pole position and race win, they were later disqualified due to exceeding the allowed tyre limits.
Before the main event, Verstappen will have another opportunity to fine-tune his performance during the qualifying races scheduled for April 18–19. These sessions will serve as crucial preparation for one of Europe’s most iconic and demanding endurance races.
Fellow Dutch driver Renger van der Zande, who has previously competed in both the Nürburgring 24 Hours and the 24 Hours of Le Mans, shared insight into the unpredictable nature of the event. He described it as one of the “craziest races” a driver can enter, highlighting the unusual mix of competitors on track.
Unlike Formula 1, the race features a wide range of participants, from amateur drivers—such as hobbyists and professionals from unrelated careers—to elite racers in high-performance GT3 machinery. This creates challenging and often unpredictable racing conditions, as faster cars must navigate through slower traffic with varying levels of experience.
Van der Zande also pointed out that the race includes unique regulations, such as specific yellow flag rules and “Code 60” zones, adding another layer of complexity. With a massive 150-car grid, the race is set to begin on May 16 and run continuously for 24 hours, finishing on May 17—making it a true test of endurance, strategy, and skill.