Max Verstappen enjoyed his 24-hour debut, as he revealed after the 24 Hours of Nürburgring via social media. What could have been a dream weekend for Verstappen, whose team was in contention for the overall victory for a long time, ultimately ended in disappointment. A technical malfunction caused a retirement in the last three hours. Nevertheless, the F1 driver gained an important experience.
Read more VIDEO: Team Verstappen back on the track for the final lap, Juncadella reaches the finish line
Verstappen can look back on the recent edition of the 24 Hours of Nürburgring with his head held high. He received nothing but praise from his fellow drivers and, thanks in part to his presence, the German circuit was bursting at the seams throughout the weekend. The event was completely sold out and attracted a total of 352,000 visitors. He also showed his best side in the race. The Dutchman took part three times and each time proved that he can compete with the very best GT3 drivers. With his daring overtakes and stunning pace, he also put the endurance classic and GT3 racing firmly in the spotlight.
Disappointment
In his third stint, Verstappen drove convincingly in the lead and seemed to be on course for the overall victory with his team. However, when he handed over the Mercedes-AMG GT3 to teammate Daniel Juncadella around 11:30 on Sunday, things went wrong for Verstappen Racing. The Spaniard quickly noticed that the car had become ‘uncontrollable’ and was forced to return to the pit lane. There, a problem with the driveshaft was diagnosed: the end of the road for Verstappen and company. The car was repaired just in time, after which Juncadella came back into action one last time in the very last lap to cross the finish line. However, that did not lessen the disappointment.
After the retirement, Verstappen was no longer seen on the circuit. “The end of the race was very unfortunate and frustrating,” he reflected in a short message on social media. “These things can happen. Nevertheless, I really enjoyed the experience together with Jules, Luggi and Dani,” referring to teammates Jules Gounon, Lucas Auer, and Juncadella. “Thanks to the team and everyone around the circuit for your support.”
Read more Sister team Verstappen wins 24 Hours of Nürburgring, overall victory for Mercedes
It also became clear on social media that Verstappen left the Eifel area around 5:00 PM and arrived in Monaco just over an hour later. This week, the Dutchman is focusing again on his regular racing program and is preparing for the Canadian GP in Montréal.
Very unfortunate and frustrating ending, but these things can happen.
I still really enjoyed the experience together with Jules, Luggi and Dani. Thanks to the team and everyone around the track for your support. pic.twitter.com/9kvLyvlELKRead more Nürburgring explained: Why the mechanics don’t sleep
— Max Verstappen (@Max33Verstappen) May 17, 2026
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