Verstappen Set for Nordschleife Debut

According to Auto Motor und Sport, on September 13 Max Verstappen will make his debut in the Nurburgring Endurance Series (NLS) on the legendary Nordschleife of the Nürburgring.His schedule also includes another race on September 27.

Immediately after testing the 2026 prototype tires in Monza, the Dutchman will travel to Germany, where on September 12 he is required to complete the mandatory preparation program for series newcomers:a theoretical course and a final exam. However,under the regulations,Verstappen will not be allowed to drive the Ferrari 296 GT3, which he already tested earlier this year under the pseudonym Franz Hermann. Instead, he must first compete in a less powerful car most likely a Porsche Cayman GT4 CS entered by the Lionspeed GP team.

To secure the necessary license for GT3 competition, Verstappen must complete 14 laps in two different cars without incurring penalties.Should he succeed,on September 27 following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix he will race with Emil Frey Racing at the wheel of the Ferrari 296 GT3. This will mark his first official race on the Nordschleife in the GT3 category.

Interestingly, this time Verstappen will not be able to race under a pseudonym, as the regulations require him to compete using his official license issued in his real name.