Max Verstappen will face some of the best endurance drivers in the world on the iconic Nordschleife.
The record-breaking edition of the 24 Hours of Nürburgring — sold out for the first time in its history, most likely due to the presence of four-time world champion Max Verstappen — will once again feature the traditional mix of professionals and ambitious amateur drivers. The iconic 25.378-kilometre German circuit is ready to host one of motorsport’s toughest challenges, a race that, especially during the night when temperatures drop dramatically, hides countless dangers. Here is who will challenge Max Verstappen for the coveted victory.
The rivals
Among the Dutchman’s rivals — Verstappen will race alongside Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon and Daniel Juncadella aboard the #3 Mercedes-AMG GT3 entered by his own team — the reigning winners certainly stand out: Augusto Farfus, Raffaele Marciello and Kelvin van der Linde, joined this year by Jordan Pepper. The four will compete with the #1 BMW M4 GT3 EVO. Another highly experienced endurance line-up will be fielded by their teammates in the #99 car: Dan Harper, Max Hesse, Dries Vanthoor and Sheldon van der Linde. A third M4 will be entrusted to Marco Wittmann, Philipp Eng, Charles Weerts and Robin Frijns in the #77 car.
In addition to the South African van der Linde brothers, the Vanthoor family will also field both siblings, with Laurens joining Riccardo Feller and Laurin Heinrich aboard the #24 Porsche 911 GT3 R Evo26. Another crew with excellent credentials is the #80 Mercedes-AMG GT3 driven by Maro Engel, Luca Stolz, Fabian Schiller and Maxime Martin. One driver who must always be watched closely is Kevin Estre: the Frenchman stepped away from the WEC following Porsche’s withdrawal, although some rumours link him with McLaren for 2027, but he remains an exceptionally fast driver. He will share the #911 Porsche 911 GT3 R Evo26 entered by Manthey, famous for its unmistakable yellow livery.
Italy
Italy will be represented by two endurance racing stars: Mattia Drudi in the #34 Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 EVO and Mirko Bortolotti, inevitably linked with Lamborghini, who will race the #84 Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO2.
The last Italian victory on the Nordschleife dates back to 2021, when Matteo Cairoli triumphed aboard a Porsche 911 GT3 R alongside Michael Christensen and Kévin Estre. The last Italian car to win the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, meanwhile, was the Ferrari Ferrari 296 GT3 in 2023.
Photo: profile X @Max33Verstappen
