Verstappen puts Nürburgring back in global spotlight, Glock says

Max Verstappen's participation at the Nürburgring has brought the iconic track and German motorsport back into the global conversation, says former F1 driver Timo Glock. Speaking ahead of the 24 Hours of Nürburgring weekend, Glock credits the four-time world champion for reigniting excitement around the event, which he calls the biggest race in the world yet rarely receives due attention.

Why it matters:

• Verstappen's presence at the Nordschleife has driven unprecedented interest in German endurance racing, with the 24-hour event selling out for the first time. Glock notes that wherever Verstappen goes, fans pack the venue, and the global media spotlight follows.
• The Dutch driver’s commitment to GT3 racing, including skipping last year’s F1 movie premiere in favor of testing at Spa, underscores his genuine passion for the sport beyond Formula 1.

The details:

• Glock, speaking in a press conference attended by GPblog, said: “We should bow down to him. He is putting the Nürburgring and German motorsport fully back in the spotlight.”
• He described the scene as “absolute madness” with sold-out crowds and fans scrambling for photos.
• Verstappen and Winward Racing ultimately qualified fourth for the 24-hour race, missing pole by just over eight-tenths. Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon, and Dani Juncadella shared the driving duties in the #130 Mercedes-AMG GT3.
• Role model: Glock highlighted Verstappen’s decision to skip the F1 movie premiere in 2025 for GT3 testing, calling it the “most beautiful image” of his dedication.

What's next:

• Verstappen will race in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring on Sunday, with the potential to secure another major endurance victory. The attention he brings could further boost the profile of the event and German motorsport long-term.
• With his F1 calendar already packed, Verstappen’s continued involvement in GT3 racing adds a compelling narrative to the 2026 season and beyond.