Motorsport, Sportrik Media - Max Verstappen has been warned about the dangers of the Nürburgring Nordschleife ahead of his planned debut in the Nürburgring 24 Hours later this year.
The four-time Formula 1 world champion confirmed before the Chinese Grand Prix that he intends to compete in the endurance classic, continuing his growing interest in GT and endurance racing outside Formula 1. Verstappen will drive a Mercedes-AMG GT3 alongside team-mates Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon, and Dani Juncadella during the race scheduled from May 15 to May 17.
Before taking part in the 24-hour event, Verstappen must complete a preparatory race around the Nordschleife on March 21 as part of the licensing requirements needed to compete at the circuit.
Nürburgring 24 Hours race director Walter Hornung welcomed Verstappen’s participation, highlighting the significance of having a current Formula 1 star enter the event.
“That makes our whole team very proud,” Hornung told De Telegraaf.
“It is very good for the name of the Nürburgring and the whole Eifel region. I think it also shows that we all did well last year.”
Hornung also praised Verstappen for choosing to follow the standard licensing process rather than seeking an exemption based on his Formula 1 experience and achievements.
“The rules are the same for everyone and it’s a mark of Verstappen that he didn’t want any privileges and went through all the steps,” he said.
Verstappen already gained experience at the Nordschleife last year when he competed in a four-hour race alongside Chris Lulham, a race they ultimately won. However, the Nürburgring 24 Hours presents a significantly greater challenge due to its duration and demanding conditions.
Hornung nevertheless considers Verstappen among the potential contenders for victory, although he stopped short of naming him the outright favourite.
“He is definitely one of the favourites,” Hornung said.
“It would be going too far to call him the top favourite right now. Max’s qualities are unquestionable, but I don’t know what his experience is in terms of driving at night.”
The Nordschleife remains one of the most iconic circuits in motorsport but is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous due to its high speeds, long layout, and limited run-off areas.
Hornung emphasised that all drivers, including Verstappen, would be reminded of the risks involved when competing at the circuit, often referred to as the “Green Hell.”
“As a driver you have to respect the ‘Green Hell’ and always keep in mind that motorsport can be dangerous,” Hornung said.
Verstappen’s participation in the Nürburgring 24 Hours will mark another step in expanding his racing activities beyond Formula 1 while tackling one of endurance racing’s most demanding events.
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