Max Verstappen’s latest racing plans have been confirmed, as the reigning Formula 1 champion temporarily steps away from the F1 spotlight to take part in endurance racing during the sport’s spring break.
The official entry list for the upcoming Nurburgring 24h Qualifiers, scheduled for April 18–19, has now been released, with Max Verstappen named among the standout participants. The Dutch driver will share driving duties with Austrian racer Lucas Auer in the No. 3 Mercedes-AMG GT3 car, representing Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing. Their entry is one of 37 confirmed for the event, which serves as a key build-up to the iconic Nürburgring 24 Hours race.
Verstappen’s participation highlights his continued passion for racing beyond Formula 1, as he takes advantage of the enforced break in the F1 calendar to gain more experience in endurance competition. While it does not signal a permanent departure from Formula 1, it reinforces his interest in diversifying his racing portfolio and competing in different disciplines whenever his schedule allows.
Away from Verstappen’s activities, attention has also turned to developments within Aston Martin F1 Team, where concerns are growing over the team’s current situation. According to David Croft, the mood within the Silverstone-based outfit is far from positive following a difficult start to the 2026 Formula 1 season.
Croft revealed that internally, the team is struggling to find stability and direction, describing the environment as unsettled. Despite significant investment and high expectations, Aston Martin has failed to deliver competitive performances on track, leading to mounting pressure within the organization.
A major talking point has been the involvement of legendary designer Adrian Newey. Widely regarded as one of the greatest technical minds in Formula 1 history, Newey’s association with Aston Martin had raised hopes of a rapid turnaround in performance. However, Croft suggested that the reality of Newey’s role is not as straightforward as many had assumed.
Rather than immediately transforming the team’s fortunes, Newey’s current responsibilities appear to be more long-term and strategic, focusing on future car development rather than delivering instant results. This has contributed to frustration both inside and outside the team, as expectations for quick progress have not been met.
The combination of underwhelming results and uncertainty around leadership and technical direction has led to the perception that Aston Martin is currently “not a happy ship.” With the season still in its early stages, the team faces increasing scrutiny to resolve its issues and demonstrate meaningful improvement.
As the Nürburgring weekend approaches, Verstappen’s involvement in endurance racing provides an interesting contrast to the turbulence elsewhere in the Formula 1 paddock. While one of the sport’s biggest stars explores new challenges on track, teams like Aston Martin are left grappling with internal struggles and the pressure to turn their season around.
