Verstappen drives German surge as F1 makes its comeback.
Pirelli has moved a scheduled tyre test.
Max Verstappen’s increasing popularity at the Nurburgring is creating a surge of interest in Germany, coinciding with Formula 1's quiet return to the historic circuit due to changes in the calendar.
As reported by Auto Motor und Sport, the organisers of the Nurburgring 24 Hours have had to reject entries for the first time in several years, with all 150 grid spots now taken.
The rise in demand is directly attributed to Verstappen’s participation in GT3 racing at the renowned Nordschleife. "As the organiser, ADAC Nordrhein, announced, it is already clear that all 150 starting positions will be filled," the report stated.
"The excitement surrounding the four-time world champion has led to a significant influx of interested teams." Officials confirmed that entries will now undergo a review process, with some likely to be rejected.
"To ensure a fair process for all teams, the regulations specify that a review and selection will occur after the entry deadline," said an ADAC Nordrhein spokesperson.
The event is also expected to attract a notably larger audience, with eight major manufacturers—including Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Porsche, and Mercedes-AMG—preparing to enter GT3 cars.
Concurrently, Formula 1 is returning to the Nurburgring, though not in the limelight. With races in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia cancelled due to the Iran crisis, Pirelli has moved a planned tyre test to the German track on April 14-15.
Mercedes and McLaren will both participate, unusually showcasing their full race line-ups rather than reserve drivers. This means championship leader Kimi Antonelli and George Russell will be on the track alongside Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri.
"The reason is clear—firstly, the regular drivers need to gain mileage. Secondly, the drivers must continue to acclimate to their new cars," explained the German magazine.
However, fans eager to watch will be disappointed. "Spectators are not allowed at the private Pirelli test at the Nurburgring," the report mentioned, as the tyre supplier seeks to keep its 2027 developments confidential.
Other articles
Verstappen's race engineer is set to become the new team principal at McLaren.
Formula 1 | Long-time race engineer for Max Verstappen, Gianpiero 'GP' Lambiase, is reportedly leaving Red Bull to join McLaren, as per credible sources in the (...)
Verstappen's race engineer will take on the role of the new team principal at McLaren.
Formula 1 | Long-time race engineer for Max Verstappen, Gianpiero 'GP' Lambiase, is reportedly departing Red Bull to join McLaren, as indicated by reliable sources in the (…)
Lance Stroll consulted with Verstappen.
Lance said that the idea to compete in the GT race came about during dinner in Suzuka, and he consulted about it with Max Verstappen.
Verstappen ignites German enthusiasm as F1 makes its comeback.
Formula 1 | Max Verstappen's increasing popularity at the Nurburgring is sparking heightened interest in Germany - precisely as Formula 1 subtly makes its return to the (…)
The position of Gianpiero Lambiasi at McLaren has been announced.
The news of racing engineer Max Verstappen, Gianpiero Lambiasi, moving to McLaren has stirred the racing community. Gradually, details of the high-profile transfer are emerging, although the teams have not yet provided official comments.
Danner believes Russell will regain the advantage over Antonelli.
Formula 1 | Christian Danner is of the opinion that George Russell will eventually surpass championship leader Kimi Antonelli as the 2026 season progresses. (…)
Verstappen drives German surge as F1 makes its comeback.
Formula 1 | Max Verstappen's increasing prominence at the Nurburgring is sparking rising interest in Germany - coinciding with the discreet return of Formula 1 to the (…)