NLS Changes Date to Enable Verstappen Entry

The NLS has confirmed a revised date for the second event of its 2026 season in a move that would enable Max Verstappen to contest a preparation round ahead of a possible entry into this year’s Nürburgring 24.

The four-time Formula 1 world champion had long been linked with tackling the endurance event around the Nordschleife but, despite winning on his series debut last year, said he would want to contest a round this year before committing to the N24.

Although the enduro does not clash with any F1 grands prix, the earmarked preparation event on March 28 was on the same weekend as the Japanese Grand Prix.

However, NLS organizers have now announced this has been brought forward by a week to March 21, thereby enabling Verstappen to take part.

In a statement, the NLS said: “We’re turning it up a gear – for sport and our region! To make the NLS even more internationally accessible, NLS2 will be on the March 21st.

“We use an existing gap in the F1 calendar between the grand prix of China and Japan. This placement allows pilots from the royal class and other international series to start with us.

“By doing so, we increase the worldwide popularity of the NLS for the benefit of all teams and sustainably strengthen the reputation of our series and the region.”

It was announced at the end of last year that the F1 star’s Verstappen Racing squad would be switching from Aston Martin machinery to a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo and sim racing ace Chris Lulham would now be joined by Daniel Juncadella and factory driver Jules Gounon for a GT World Challenge Europe powered by AWS campaign.

Verstappen has already tested an Mercedes-AMG himself at Estoril, courtesy of 2 Seas Motorsport, ahead of a possible N24 entry.