Max Verstappen is considering participating in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring next year, provided he can adequately prepare for this grueling endurance race. However, with the busy Formula 1 schedule, this is easier said than done. Currently, Verstappen lacks opportunities to participate in an NLS race on the Nordschleife. The race class board may accommodate him in this regard.
Insiders told the German Motorsport-Total that Verstappen wants to drive at least one NLS race before he participates in the 24-hour race. However, the first NLS race is scheduled for March 14, during the Grand Prix weekend in Shanghai. Two weeks ago, an NLS spokesperson stated that the schedule is fixed, but there now seems to be room for changes. NLS chief Mike Jäger indicates he is open to adjustments, though not specifically for Verstappen.
‘Verstappen has a positive effect on NLS’
“It’s not ideal that half of the championship races take place before the 24-hour race,” he told the German medium. “But due to the circumstances, it can’t be any other way. If there’s something to change, we’re happy to do it. But that still needs to be investigated.” Whether a request has come from Verstappen’s camp, he dares not say. “Not to the NLS,” says Jäger, although he does not rule out that some things have been discussed through intermediaries.””Regarding a possible return of the four-time world champion to the NLS, Jäger is clearly positive. “We would love to see him back in our championship,” he assured. “I appreciate his down-to-earth demeanor and I think he and his entire entourage have a positive effect on our championship. However, we have little influence over his participation.” Max Verstappen‘s GT3 debut drew worldwide attention to the German racing class. Extra stands were set up for all spectators and live streams of the race broke viewership records for the NLS.”
