Max Verstappen returned to the Nordschleife on Saturday, lining up for the NLS4 and NLS5 GT3 races that precede the 24‑hour endurance event. The Red Bull‑affiliated driver joined endurance veteran Lucas Auer, Gerhard Berger’s nephew, in a Mercedes‑AMG GT3 for Verstappen Racing. The pair’s presence clocks the fourth time Verstappen has contested the Nurburgring in GT3 machinery.

Verstappen’s entry follows a four‑month F1 break after Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix were cancelled. The Dutchman, who last September claimed victory in a Ferrari 296 GT3 alongside Chris Lulham, now drives a Mercedes‑powered car. Their last outing ended in a win that was later annulled when the team exceeded the permitted tyre allocation rules.

Saturday’s live stream will kick off at 4 pm, with the race starting at 4:30, while Sunday’s event launches at 11:30. Fans can watch both four‑hour battles on Sky Sports.com or via the Sky Sports app. The Nurburgring’s legendary “Green Hell” track remains a proving ground for drivers stepping outside Formula One’s grid in high pressure conditions today.

Verstappen’s dual GT3 campaign underscores his versatility and keeps him in the spotlight as the 2026 F1 season approaches. The results from the Nordschleife will inform his preparation for the upcoming Miami Grand Prix, where Red Bull will battle for the championship title in May 2026.