Verstappen to Navigate Nürburgring Qualification Hurdle in NLS Debut
Nürburgring, Germany – Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen is set to make his debut in the Nürburgring Langstrecken Series (NLS) this weekend, but will first need to complete a specific qualifying procedure to earn full racing privileges. Verstappen will share driving duties in two Lionspeed cayman cars to fulfill requirements for a permit allowing him to compete in the higher GT3 category.
The NLS employs a permit system designed to promote respect on the track by requiring drivers to experience racing from the outlook of a slower car before moving to faster machinery. To qualify, Verstappen must achieve two classified race results - achievable within a single race by switching cars – and complete a minimum of 14 laps and 20% of the race distance in each Cayman. The Cayman’s typical lap count of 25-26 in a four-hour race suggests two seven-lap stints per car will suffice.
Introduced in 2015, the system has proven controversial, with some, like MotoGP legend Valentino Rossi, refusing to race at the Nürburgring due to it. Critics label it an unneeded obstacle, while supporters, including the Nürburgring pilot working group, maintain it has improved race flow.
Verstappen’s ultimate goal is to compete in the GT3 class, perhaps even with his own team. This weekend’s 65th ADAC Cup ACAS race, and the following day’s round, will be live-streamed for free on Motorsport.tv, with coverage beginning at 8:15 local time for qualifying and race retransmission starting at 11:15 local time before the 12:00 race start.