Verstappen returns to Nordschleife with Mercedes for NLS race

Max Verstappen is swapping his Red Bull for a Mercedes-AMG GT3 this weekend, returning to the Nürburgring Nordschleife for a four-hour NLS endurance race. The Formula 1 world champion, alongside teammates Daniel Juncadella and Jules Gounon, will compete in the #3 Mercedes as part of his preparation for the iconic 24-hour race later this season, following a dominant GT3 debut victory on the circuit last year.

Why it matters:

Verstappen's participation highlights the growing crossover between F1 drivers and premier endurance racing, using events like the NLS as critical preparation for the grueling Nürburgring 24 Hours. For Verstappen, it offers valuable track time and a competitive outlet outside of an F1 season that has started below his usual standard, while also showcasing his versatility and commitment to motorsport beyond the grand prix calendar.

The details:

• Verstappen will drive the #3 Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo for the NLS1 race, teaming up with seasoned GT and endurance experts Daniel Juncadella and Jules Gounon.
• This marks his first competitive outing on the Nordschleife since September 2025, when he won the NLS9 race on his GT3 debut at the circuit driving a Ferrari for Emil Frey Racing.
• His previous success demonstrates his rapid adaptation to the unique demands of the 20.8-kilometer "Green Hell," having also completed the required permit process in a GT4 car earlier in 2025.
• The NLS (Nürburgring Langstrecken Serie) format condenses all track action into a single day, with qualifying in the morning followed immediately by the race.

What's next:

The on-track action for NLS1 begins today. All eyes will be on how the reigning F1 champion performs in his new Mercedes machinery against a dedicated field of GT3 specialists.

• Qualifying is scheduled for 08:30 local time, setting the grid for the main event.
• The four-hour race is set to start at 12:00 noon. This race serves as a key building block in Verstappen's 2026 program, with the ultimate goal being a strong performance at the legendary ADAC TotalEnergies 24h Nürburgring.