NLS changes 2026 calendar to aid Max Verstappen's Nurburgring 24 Hours bid

The Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) is adjusting its 2026 schedule to make it possible for four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen to race on the Nordschleife. 

While the legendary Nurburgring 24 Hours on 14–17 May does not clash with a F1 grand prix, the NLS preparation races originally did. Participation in at least one of the NLS endurance races was not mandatory for Verstappen, but it was considered a personal prerequisite for him to be ready for the 24-hour classic. 

According to a report, Mercedes-Benz Chairman Ola Kallenius and motorsport boss Toto Wolff had personally campaigned to make Verstappen's start in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 possible. Their efforts succeeded, with organiser VLN undertaking what it calls a “strategic calendar adjustment.”

Specifically, the second race of the NLS season, originally set for 28 March and therefore clashing with the Japanese Grand Prix, has been brought forward by one week. The new date, 21 March, now sits between the F1 races in China and Japan, allowing Verstappen to compete. 

“The decision to move an already fixed date was taken in intensive discussions with many stakeholders, weighing all interests — in the interest of motorsport,” explained NLS Director Mike Jager in a statement.

“We want to continue to build on the worldwide recognition that the NLS gained last year through Max Verstappen’s participation, to the benefit of all teams and participants.”

Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing

Photo by: Erik Junius

In a separate statement, the series said: "The VLN is moving the second round of the ADAC RAVENOL Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) 2026 to March 21.

"Bringing the race forward by one week takes advantage of an existing gap in the Formula 1 calendar, opening up participation to drivers from the premier class and other international racing series. 

"This also aims to further build on the global visibility that the NLS gained last year through Max Verstappen’s participation, to the benefit of all teams and competitors. The start of the season on March 14, 2026, remains unchanged."

To make the calendar change possible, the Rundstrecken-Challenge Nurburgring (RCN) agreed to swap its date with the NLS. The Nurburgring also approved the change. As a result, there is now nothing standing in the way of Verstappen’s start in the Nurburgring 24 Hours, following an initial outing in one of the NLS rounds.

It is considered likely that the Dutchman will compete this year in the Eifel region with Mercedes-AMG, and he has already completed his first tests in the AMG GT3.