Max Verstappen has shared fresh insight into when he could return to racing at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, following a dramatic disqualification that overshadowed what initially looked like a perfect weekend.
The four-time Formula 1 world champion competed in last weekend’s NLS2 endurance race at the legendary German circuit, driving for his own outfit, Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing. Alongside teammates Daniel Juncadella and Jules Gounon, Verstappen delivered a standout performance on track. The trio secured pole position and went on to win the race, completing what appeared to be a flawless showing.
However, the celebration was short-lived. Post-race checks revealed that the team had exceeded the permitted tyre usage limits, leading to their disqualification. The ruling stripped them of both their pole position and race victory, turning a dominant display into a controversial setback.
Despite the disappointment, Verstappen remains highly engaged with his GT racing commitments, which are becoming increasingly significant alongside his Formula 1 career. The Dutch driver has been vocal about his struggles adapting to the new F1 regulations introduced for the 2026 season, and his growing involvement in endurance and GT racing suggests a shift in focus.
Looking ahead, Verstappen is already targeting a return to the Nordschleife. He has entered the prestigious 24 Hours of Nürburgring, scheduled to take place in May. Before that, key qualifying rounds—consisting of two four-hour races and additional sessions—are set for the weekend of April 18–19.
Speaking during media duties at the Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen hinted strongly that he intends to participate in those qualifiers. With Formula 1 facing an unusual five-week break due to the cancellations of the Saudi Arabian and Bahrain Grands Prix, the timing offers him a rare opportunity to focus on his GT racing program.
Verstappen explained that his presence could be crucial for the team, particularly given the limited availability of his usual co-drivers. Lucas Auer is currently the only driver confirmed to be available for the upcoming sessions, as both Juncadella and Gounon have prior commitments elsewhere.
“At the moment, only Lucas would be in the car,” Verstappen noted, suggesting he would feel compelled to step in rather than leave his teammate to shoulder the workload alone. His comments indicate not only a strong sense of responsibility but also a genuine enthusiasm for competing in endurance racing.
This increasing commitment is part of a broader evolution in Verstappen’s approach to his racing ventures outside Formula 1. Since the beginning of 2026, both his GT racing team and his sim racing outfit have been rebranded to more closely reflect his personal identity. According to Verstappen, this marks a shift toward a more professional and serious attitude in his role as a team owner.
The team is also building on recent success. After securing a Gold Cup title in the GT World Challenge Europe last year, the lineup for 2026 is set to compete at an even higher level. Juncadella, Gounon, and Chris Lulham are expected to race together in the highly competitive Pro class, signaling the team’s ambitions to establish itself among the elite.
For Verstappen, the Nürburgring represents more than just another race track—it is a proving ground where his passion for racing in all its forms continues to thrive. While his Formula 1 future remains under scrutiny amid regulatory changes and mixed performances, his growing involvement in GT racing highlights a driver eager to expand his horizons and maintain his competitive edge across multiple disciplines.
If his hints materialize, fans won’t have to wait long to see Verstappen back in action at one of motorsport’s most iconic venues.
