Nürburgring legend Markus Winkelhock tips Max Verstappen for 24h debut victory

Four-time Nürburgring 24 Hours winner Markus Winkelhock thinks Max Verstappen can win the legendary endurance race on his first attempt. In an exclusive interview with GPblog, the German driver said Verstappen's Mercedes package and quick learning give him a realistic shot at victory. However, he also highlighted potential pitfalls like overnight rain and traffic management.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's entry into the Nürburgring 24h is a major storyline for 2026, as he pursues one of motorsport's toughest endurance challenges. A win would add to his legacy and showcase his versatility beyond F1, where he has already dominated multiple championships.

The details:

• Winkelhock says winning a 24-hour race is almost like winning a championship, explaining why Verstappen has this on his bucket list alongside Spa and Le Mans.
• Strong package: Verstappen drives a Mercedes with factory teammates Lucas Auer, Daniel Juncadella, and Jules Gounon. The Balance of Performance (BOP) is expected to favor Mercedes, making the car reliable and competitive on the Nordschleife.
• Key challenges for a rookie:
  • Night driving: Verstappen lacks practical night experience, especially in changing conditions. “If it rains at night and then starts to dry, that’s the key part. You can’t see where it’s drying or still wet,” Winkelhock warns.
  • Traffic overtaking: Must take extra care to survive 24 hours without incidents.
• Adaptability: Verstappen is a quick learner and now knows the circuit well, with many simulator hours. In dry conditions, Winkelhock sees no problems at night.

What's next:

The race will test Verstappen's adaptability beyond F1. If conditions stay dry, his speed and team should deliver a strong result. A wet night could be the deciding factor, where experience from teammates becomes crucial. All eyes will be on Verstappen's endurance debut at the Nürburgring.