Max Verstappen’s Chances of Winning Nurburgring 24 Hours Explained
Max Verstappen is taking part in the ADAC Nürburgring 24 Hours, an endurance race that will test the Red Bull driver in a new discipline. Verstappen has long been a fan of endurance racing, taking part in several virtual races from his simulator, though he is now stepping into a car. It will be a challenge for the F1 driver, who has conquered the pinnacle of single-seater racing, to adjust and race with a different kind of machinery.
Despite his success with F1, endurance racing brings its own set of challenges and quirks that could trip him up. Apr 30, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Red Bull Racing driver Max Verstappen (3) looks on from the paddock area at Miami International Autodrome. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images Verstappen is well aware of the tricky nature of changing motorsport disciplines.
“The level is high, it’s super high,” he said. “Of course, maybe some people don’t know some of the drivers because they’re not so much into GT racing, but there are a lot of really good, even older — like very experienced — drivers. ” What can stop Max Verstappen?
A Balance of Performance kicks in during racing to ensure it remains competitive, which unlocks the addition of ballast, restrictor plates, fuel consumption limits, and aerodynamic restrictions. There are cars that tend to hide their true pace until the end, essentially gaming the system and exploiting the rule. Verstappen is well aware of the system, possibly instilling high confidence that can lead to “At the end of the day, it will depend also a bit on your preparation and the final BoP,” Verstappen said.
“From other cars, some are of course still hiding quite a bit. ” Additionally, he is driving a different car — a GT car that is quite different from the rocket-ship like desing of an F1 car. In fact, his car will be made by an unfamiliar party: Mercedes.