Max Verstappen to Compete in 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours with Mercedes-AMG

Four-time Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen will make his debut at the Nürburgring 24 Hours in May 2026, racing for Mercedes-AMG. The announcement confirms the Red Bull Racing driver’s long-held interest in endurance racing and adds a new dimension to his already impressive racing career.

Verstappen’s Endurance Racing Ambitions

Verstappen has previously expressed his enthusiasm for endurance racing, and in 2025, he obtained his DMSB Permit Nordschleife, allowing him to compete in GT3 races at the Nürburgring . He won his first GT3 event on his debut in the Nürburgring Endurance Series in September 2025. “The Nürburgring is a special place. There’s no other track like it,” Verstappen said. “The 24h Nürburgring is a race that’s been on my bucket list for a long time, so I’m really thrilled we can make it happen now.”

Team and Car Details

Verstappen will share the #3 Mercedes-AMG GT3 – mirroring his Formula 1 car number – with experienced drivers Lucas Auer and Jules Gounon, both factory drivers for the Mercedes GT3 program, and Daniel Juncadella, who recently transitioned from Corvette Racing to Genesis Magma Racing in Le Mans Hypercars . The car will sport a Red Bull livery, despite Verstappen competing under the Mercedes-AMG banner, demonstrating continued support from his Formula 1 team .

Preparation and Schedule

The team will participate in several preparatory events leading up to the 24-hour race in May. Verstappen is scheduled to make his first appearance of the season at the NLS2 on March 21 . This participation was facilitated by a rescheduling of the NLS2 race at Mercedes’ request.

Verstappen’s 2026 Season

This announcement comes shortly after the 2026 Formula 1 season opener, where Verstappen finished sixth. His decision to compete in the Nürburgring 24 Hours reflects his passion for racing and a desire to challenge himself in a different discipline. Walter Hornung, the race director of the 24-hour race, noted Verstappen’s professional approach to preparation, including completing the standard qualification process and extensive simulator operate .