Marko approves Verstappen for the 2026 Nurburgring 24h.
"He’ll be adequately prepared to compete for the overall win."
18 September 2025 - 09:38
Max Verstappen has received approval from Dr. Helmut Marko to participate in the 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours, but not Le Mans. The four-time Formula 1 world champion completed the necessary laps in a power-restricted GT4 Porsche last weekend as part of Germany’s stringent permit system, which now allows him to progress to high-level GT3 vehicles.
"I think it’s fantastic that a Formula 1 driver, who has numerous commitments beyond racing—like simulator duties, marketing, and PR engagements—still dedicates time to this with such enthusiasm," Marko told RTL.
The 82-year-old also criticized the rigid licensing system. "And then there’s this German process, where a four-time world champion must demonstrate he can drive around the Ring in a 240-hp Porsche—that's something else," Marko stated. "But he took it all upon himself, even though he’s likely completed around 1000 laps of the Nurburgring in the simulator. So, he wasn’t unprepared."
When asked if he had already given Verstappen the green light for next year’s 24-hour race at the circuit, Marko was clear: "Yes!" He acknowledged that Red Bull’s recent challenges have influenced Verstappen’s interest in racing outside of F1.
"The Nurburgring and the Nordschleife are certainly intriguing to every racer. When our car wasn’t competitive, it became his great passion. Now, both are functioning well. I’m confident he’ll participate, and he’ll be adequately prepared to vie for the overall victory."
However, Marko firmly ruled out the possibility of a Le Mans entry. "Le Mans is not on the agenda," the Austrian asserted. "Le Mans presents a different scenario, with even greater speed disparities and varying categories. For now, it’s only endurance racing at the Nurburgring."
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