Helmut Marko says Max Verstappen is set to race in the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Photo by: Mark Thompson – Getty Images

Helmut Marko has all but confirmed Max Verstappen’s entry into the 2026 Nürburgring 24 Hours after the four-time champion acquired his GT3 licence.

While other drivers used the break between the Italian and Azerbaijan Grands Prix to relax, Verstappen took the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 CS in the four-hour ADAC ACAS Cup. As a result, the Dutchman has now acquired a Permit A, which is required to race in GT3 and GT4.

Verstappen explained at the time, “To contest a 24-hour race here, in a GT3 car, would be amazing.”

And while this has not been officially confirmed yet, Marko told ORF in Azerbaijan that Verstappen would be “a factor in the fight for victory” in the 2026 event.

“I think it’s fantastic that someone who is still active in Formula 1 is doing this. The others who moved into endurance racing had all already left their F1 commitments behind,” Marko explained.

“The enthusiasm with which he’s doing it shows that for him, racing truly is everything. And the way he takes on these bureaucratic hurdles in Germany with such composure—he’s sure to prepare himself extremely well. And in the 24 Hours, he will certainly be a factor in the fight for victory.”

 

Helmut Marko, Red Bull Racing

When asked to clarify if the drive has been confirmed, Marko added, “From our side, it’s confirmed. And I believe from his side as well. But let’s see what else happens. That’s the way it is with him… he’s already driven thousands of laps in the simulator.

“He’s preparing meticulously, but also with joy. And I believe for endurance racing, it’s an incredible boost when a four-time world champion puts himself on the grid. Back in our day, we would have been thrilled.”

This comes during the Formula 1 race weekend in Baku. Verstappen heads into the race on the back of his win in Monza and currently sits third in the drivers’ standings with 230 points – 94 points behind leader Oscar Piastri.