Nürburgring 24H. Let battle commence.

Completely sold out for the first time in its 50+ year history, access roads have closed early, and campsites were full days in advance. The news coverage has focused on the same theme throughout the week: demand has outgrown the infrastructure.

The Nürburgring 24h has always been intense. But in 2026, it feels different.

Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen sits at the center of the attention.

His route into the race has been carefully planned. NLS entries, Nordschleife licensing, proper testing. It is a genuine racing project rather than an appearance, and Verstappen is fully committed, aiming to win.

With no Formula 1 this weekend, the eyes of the motorsport world turn to the Nürburgring 24 Hours.

Crowds have become so intense that Verstappen has withdrawn from all public events (parade, autograph sessions) due to safety concerns, with organizers warning his presence could cause chaos.

Part of the appeal this year comes from the entry list itself.

There is a strong GT3 field, as expected. Alongside it sits a some specials that add extra flavor.

The HWA EVO.R project reconnects with DTM heritage in a way that resonates strongly in Germany, paying tribute to the legendary Mercedes-Benz 190E EVO II.

BMW’s M3 Touring 24H concept entry leans into enthusiast culture rather than pure homologation logic. A one-off special, just to please the fans, but developed properly and competitive. And naturally, it uses the Fanatec Podium BMW M4 GT3 wheel.

Across the wider field, the mix of classes and approaches remains intact, preserving the character that has always set this race apart.

The Nürburgring has become the natural meeting point between sim racing and real motorsport, and this year that connection runs through the entire grid.

At the sharp end, the crossover is fully established. Verstappen has well-documented sim racing credentials, but there are several other recognizable names across the grid, including Chris Lulham, who was partnered with Verstappen for his debut GT3 win last year. Ayhancan Güven’s progression from Gran Turismo into a Porsche factory role remains one of the clearest examples of the pathway working in practice, while Laurin Heinrich continues to operate comfortably across both Coanda Esports and top-tier GT competition. Takuma Miyazono adds a different dimension, carrying Gran Turismo World Series pedigree into real endurance racing.

And of course, the BLACK FALCON Team FANATEC entry brings together Jimmy Broadbent, Steve Alvarez Brown, Misha Charoudin, and Manuel Metzger in a program shaped by the sim racing community, content, and long-term involvement with the Nürburgring.

Once again, at the final 24H qualifier, the team secured the class victory in the AT2 class, and third overall of the Porsche Cup cars. The performances of all the drivers has been gradually improving with every race weekend, so the team is in good shape for the main challenge ahead.

The Nürburgring 24h has never seen so much attention. Top-level drivers are choosing to be here and committing properly to the process. Sim racing is no longer adjacent to the event, it is woven into the competitive landscape through drivers, teams, and preparation. The entry list carries both heritage-driven projects and experimental ideas, alongside a stable and competitive GT3 core.

The race still feels rooted in its own culture, but it is being viewed through a much wider lens. With changeable conditions expected, and dropping to near freezing at night, the 2026 race is sure to deliver an unforgettable spectacle.

Live streams below:

For any further streams this race week, visit ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring - YouTube