Max Verstappen mania invades endurance: 2026 Nurburgring calendar changes eyed for F1 star’s 24 Hours bid. Max Verstappen’s debut in Endurance racing sparks calendar changes for 2026.

F1 | Verstappen-mania hits Endurance: major calendar changes planned for 2026 to include the Dutch star

The rise of Verstappen-mania in Endurance

Max Verstappen, as everyone knows, lives and breathes motorsport. Many times we have seen the Dutch driver finish an F1 race and then spend the evening in the simulator, or even skip events for the same reason. Over the past year, Max has also experienced the world of Endurance racing for the first time. After his debut at the Nürburgring, Verstappen is eager to continue his ascent in Endurance in 2026.

Recent reports reveal that the four-time world champion has already tested the Mercedes AMG GT3. On Tuesday, Max was seen at the Estoril circuit in Portugal behind the wheel of the German car. Now, the Endurance world is preparing for a potential revolution: organizers are considering changing the calendar to allow Verstappen to compete.

Everyone crazy for Max

The calendar changes would mainly affect the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in 2026, specifically to ensure Verstappen’s participation. According to MotorsportTotal.com, event organizers are doing everything possible to move the date of the race, as the qualifying sessions currently overlap with F1 race weekends. The 24-hour race would ideally take place when Max is free from Formula 1 commitments.

MotorsportTotal.com reports that Max would participate only if he could also race in the first NLS event, which currently clashes with the F1 weekend in China. NLS director Mike Jäger stated: “It’s not ideal that 50% of the races take place before the 24 Hours. But if something can be changed, we will do everything we can to make it happen.” Jäger added: “We would love to see him back. His attitude is fantastic. I believe he and his entourage have had a positive impact on our championship. It’s a shame we have little control over this aspect.”

So, we are facing difficult changes, but the organizers are ready to do whatever it takes to see Max Verstappen in Endurance racing in 2026. Verstappen-mania has officially spread beyond Formula 1, and this can only be good for the entire motorsport world.