Dani Juncadella defends Max Verstappen: not the weak link in the Mercedes crew. Dani Juncadella defends Max Verstappen ahead of the 24 Hours of Nurburgring 2026.

Mercedes’ crew enjoyed an excellent run in preparation for the 24 Hours of Nurburgring scheduled for May, with strong performances from all drivers setting a positive tone for the upcoming endurance event.

Spanish driver defends the Dutchman

“Max Verstappen could be considered the weak link of the crew because he has never raced in a real 24-hour event; he lacks experience,” commented Peter Snowdon during the Saturday 4-hour session of the NLS. From Snowdon’s point of view, the fact that Max Verstappen will be a debutant in a full 24-hour race positions the four-time Formula 1 world champion as the potential weak link in the crew, which also includes Dani Juncadella, Jules Gounon, and Lucas Auer, who will rotate behind the wheel of the Mercedes GT3 for the 24 Hours of Nurburgring 2026, taking place from Saturday, May 16 to Sunday, May 17.

Juncadella sets the record straight

Dani Juncadella took to X to address this assertion, explaining why Max Verstappen has clearly demonstrated that he will not be the weak link in the Mercedes lineup. Dani Juncadella outlined the checklist of achievements that Verstappen completed during last Saturday’s session, showing his readiness and skill in GT3 competition.

According to Dani Juncadella, Verstappen only needed two laps on Friday to get up to speed. He then claimed pole position by a clear margin. During the session, Verstappen completed a full stint closely matched with one of the top GT3 drivers at the Nurburgring, overtaking him on the very last lap. He was not hesitant in traffic, confidently overtaking slower cars and lapped vehicles wherever needed. Dani Juncadella concluded that Verstappen had fully disproved the claim that he might be the weak link of the crew.

With this preparation, Mercedes can approach the 24 Hours of Nurburgring with confidence, knowing that Verstappen, despite being a 24-hour race debutant, has already shown exceptional pace, adaptability, and composure under pressure, matching and even surpassing expectations in the lead-up sessions.

In summary, the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours is shaping up to be one of the most watched events in GT3 history. By silencing the “weak link” narrative during his very first competitive outing, Max Verstappen has signaled to the endurance world that he isn’t just there to take part—he’s there to win. Based on the content of Juncadella’s defense, the chemistry within the Mercedes garage is at an all-time high.