Please use the Chrome browser for an optimal video player experience. Tune in this Sunday at 11:30 am (UK time) to watch Max Verstappen head back to the legendary Nordschleife as part of his intensive preparation for the Nürburgring 24‑Hour race in May.
The Dutch driver will take part in a double‑header weekend within the German circuit's endurance series, featuring two four‑hour races back‑to‑back. This session is being streamed live, giving fans a chance to see Verstappen in action on one of the most demanding tracks in the world. A solemn minute’s silence will precede the start of the second four‑hour race on Sunday. The silence honors driver Juha Miettinen, a 66‑year‑old competitor who tragically lost his life after a multi‑car collision forced the suspension of Saturday’s race.
Verstappen led the tribute, expressing his condolences and paying respect to Miettinen’s memory. With the Formula 1 calendar experiencing a brief lull in April—following the cancellation of both the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix—Verstappen has turned his focus to the GT3 arena. He has added the NLS4 and NLS5 events to an already busy GT3 program, showcasing his versatility beyond single‑seater Formula 1 machinery. For this weekend’s effort, Verstappen has partnered with seasoned endurance racer Lucas Auer, the nephew of former F1 star Gerhard Berger.
Together they will pilot a Mercedes‑AMG GT3 painted in the iconic Red Bull livery, representing the Verstappen Racing team. The pair will compete against a robust field of 37 GT3 entries in the Nürburgring Langstrecken‑Serie, a championship renowned for its grueling length and the unforgiving nature of the "Green Hell" circuit. Again, we recommend using Chrome for the best streaming experience. The live stream will commence at 11:30 am, with the race itself kicking off at noon.
All times are listed in UK local time. Looking ahead, the 2026 Formula 1 calendar is set to resume on May 1‑3 with the Miami Grand Prix, which will also host the season’s second Sprint weekend. The event will be broadcast live on Sky Sports F1, and fans can stream Sky Sports through the NOW platform without a long‑term contract, with the option to cancel at any time. This will be Verstappen’s fourth appearance in GT3 competition within the NLS framework.
His debut in September last year was a triumph, as he secured victory in a Ferrari 296 GT3 alongside British co‑driver Chris Lulham. More recently, Verstappen and his teammates claimed another win in the Mercedes‑AMG GT3 during his return to the series last month, only to have the result nullified after officials determined the team had exceeded the allocated tyre allowance.
The Nürburgring Nordschleife, often referred to as the "Green Hell," is famed for its 20.8‑kilometre length, 154 turns, and dramatic elevation changes that test both driver skill and vehicle durability. For a Formula 1 champion accustomed to the precision of modern Grand Prix circuits, the Nordschleife presents a completely different set of challenges: variable weather conditions, blind crests, and a relentless rhythm that demands absolute concentration. Verstappen’s participation underscores his desire to broaden his racing repertoire and hone his car‑control abilities in an environment where even the smallest mistake can have severe consequences.
The GT3 class itself is a highly competitive category that bridges the gap between pure prototype racing and production‑based sports cars. Manufacturers such as Mercedes‑AMG, Ferrari, Porsche, and Audi field heavily modified versions of their road‑legal models, equipped with sophisticated aerodynamics, advanced suspension setups, and driver‑adjustable systems. Racing in this class requires not only raw speed but also strategic acumen—managing tyre wear, fuel consumption, and pit‑stop timing over extended stints. Verstappen’s involvement in endurance racing also serves a practical purpose: it provides valuable seat‑time in a heavier, less aerodynamically dependent car, helping him refine braking techniques, weight transfer handling, and overtaking strategies that differ from the high‑downforce world of F1.
Moreover, sharing the cockpit with an experienced endurance specialist like Lucas Auer offers a learning opportunity, as Auer brings years of knowledge about night‑time driving, traffic management, and the mental stamina required for long‑duration events. Fans can expect a thrilling broadcast that combines on‑track action with insightful commentary, behind‑the‑scenes footage of the pit lane, and expert analysis of Verstappen’s performance. The stream will also feature interviews with team engineers discussing setup choices for the Nordschleife’s unique sections, such as the infamous Karussell, the high‑speed Flugplatz, and the treacherous Pflanzgarten.
Viewers will gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous preparation that goes into competing at the Nürburgring, from tyre selection to aerodynamic balance. In addition to the live coverage, the platform will provide replays, highlights, and a chat function where fans can interact with each other and share reactions in real time. The service is designed to be accessible, with subtitles available for multiple languages and an audio description option for visually impaired viewers. Overall, Sunday’s event offers a rare glimpse of a reigning Formula 1 champion stepping out of his usual arena to tackle one of motorsport’s most iconic and demanding circuits.
Whether you are a die‑hard F1 follower, an endurance racing enthusiast, or simply curious about how a driver of Verstappen’s caliber adapts to the challenges of GT3 competition, the stream promises an engaging and memorable experience. Don’t miss the chance to watch Max Verstappen push the limits of the Mercedes‑AMG GT3 on the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife this Sunday.