Max Verstappen to race the Nürburgring 24 Hours: “I want to do endurance races now”. Max Verstappen confirmed he will compete in the Nürburgring 24 Hours this May driving a Mercedes GT3.

The Red Bull driver will take part in the famous endurance classic on the legendary German circuit in May.

The Dutchman will race with a Mercedes GT3

“I want to do them now that I’m the perfect age, not when I’m 40.” Max Verstappen made it clear during the press conference ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix that he does not intend to wait too long before completing his personal “collection” of the most legendary endurance races in the world of motorsport.

The Dutch driver will begin this journey this year by taking part in the Nürburgring 24 Hours in May, driving a Mercedes GT3 on the famous and extremely demanding German track.

“It’s one of the most beautiful races and circuits in the world,” Max Verstappen added. “Also with that type of car and level of performance the speed is perfect; if it were any faster it would be dangerous. I have many friends who have already taken part in that race and they all told me that it is incredible.”

In addition to the Nürburgring event, Verstappen’s goal is to participate as soon as possible in other iconic endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Spa and the legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans. At the moment, Formula 1 alone is not entirely enough for the Red Bull driver, who is looking for what he himself described as some “nice distractions” alongside his commitments in the world championship.

Max Verstappen’s decision to jump into a GT3 cockpit mid-season highlights a driver who is increasingly looking beyond the confines of the F1 paddock for his next challenge. While his primary focus remains the 2026 title fight and the development of the Red Bull powertrain, the allure of the Nordschleife represents a bucket-list item that he is unwilling to postpone. Racing a Mercedes GT3—a direct rival to his F1 employer’s interests—only adds more intrigue to his pursuit of endurance glory. If he can master the Eifel mountains in May, the calls for a Le Mans appearance will only grow louder. For Max, the clock is ticking, and he intends to spend every second of his “perfect age” at full throttle.