Red Bull Team ABT could be facing a dramatic late disqualification from the 2026 ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring after race officials launched an investigation into the performance of their Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO2.
The team, one of the major rivals to Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing during the iconic endurance event, finished second on the road after a gruelling race around the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife. However, the result now hangs in the balance following post-race technical inspections.
According to reports from Motorsport-Total.com, officials discovered that the Lamborghini’s engine may have exceeded the permitted power output during mandatory checks carried out after the chequered flag. The car, entered as race No. 84 and driven by Mirko Bortolotti, Luca Engstler, and Patric Niederhauser, was subjected to Balance of Performance testing on a rolling dynamometer.
The inspection allegedly revealed that the engine was producing around 20 horsepower more than the reference value allowed under current GT3 regulations. Under the series rules, teams are permitted only a maximum deviation of two percent from the approved output figure. With the Lamborghini’s engine rated at approximately 500 horsepower, the acceptable margin is believed to be around 10 horsepower — meaning the ABT entry may have significantly exceeded the legal limit.
As a result, the final race classification has been left provisional while stewards continue their investigation into the matter. A disqualification would dramatically alter the final standings and could hand a major boost to rival teams, including the Max Verstappen-backed Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing outfit.
The situation became even more complicated due to technical issues encountered during the inspection process itself. Reports suggest the Lamborghini suffered from a faulty clutch immediately after the race, causing delays while officials attempted to complete the required testing procedures. Despite the complications, the vehicle was eventually assessed and the concerning power figures were reportedly identified.
Post-race scrutineering is a standard process at the Nürburgring 24 Hours, especially for the leading finishers. This year, the top cars from six different manufacturers were reportedly sealed and sent for detailed examination once the race concluded. While the remaining entries successfully passed the checks without issue, the Red Bull-sponsored ABT Lamborghini became the only car to trigger serious concerns.
The Nürburgring 24 Hours is regarded as one of the toughest endurance races in motorsport, with teams battling through day and night on the unforgiving 25-kilometre Nordschleife circuit. Given the prestige of the event, any potential rules breach is treated with extreme seriousness by race organisers and officials.
Stewards are now expected to review all technical data and hear from team representatives before making a final decision. Until then, uncertainty continues to surround one of the biggest stories to emerge from this year’s race weekend.
