Schedule change allows Verstappen to possibly race in this historic event with Mercedes

21:48, 25 Jan

Updated: 22:13, 25 Jan

byLudo van Denderen

Organisers of the 24 Hours of Nürburgring have told GPblog they are moving dates for a preparatory race around the iconic circuit - meaning Max Verstappen will be able to race in his new Mercedes.

Earlier on Sunday, it became clear that another racing class had shifted one of their events. As a result, it would be possible for the NLS—responsible for the 24 Hours on the Nordschleife—to move a race that serves as preparation for the main event to slot that has been left vacant.

Until now, every round on the schedule has clashed with the Formula 1 calendar — such as NLS1 on 14 March, which coincides with the Chinese Grand Prix, or NLS2 on 28 March, which runs alongside the Japanese Grand Prix at Suzuka.

While all attempts to reschedule the opening round proved unsuccessful, it is the second race where a solution appears to have been found — one that would allow the four-time world champion to take part without clashing.

However, the schedule change would now allow Verstappen to take part in NLS2 on 21 March with the Winward Racing Mercedes-AMG, potentially teaming up with Lucas Auer for the occasion.
The Dutchman recently told GPblog he only wants to race the 24 Hours if there’s a chance to take part in a smaller event as well. Until then, it had been impossible due to the F1 calendar.

Mercedes boss Toto Wolff has also urged the NLS to make the calendar change. The Austrian is very keen to see Verstappen shine in a Mercedes during the iconic 24 Hours at the Green Hell.

It is widely known that the Red Bull Racing driver already has permission to take part in the preparation races as well as the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring. Last season, his appearance at the NLS event drew huge amount of media interest and a large fan presence.