Max Verstappen reflects on the risks that the Nordschleife section of the famous German circuit can bring ahead of his qualifying races for the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. However, the four-time world champion greatly enjoys driving on the German circuit: ‘Besides, you can crash anywhere,’ he says matter-of-factly.
Read more Norris sees how 2026 power unit ‘takes too much control away from the driver’
Max Verstappen is traveling to the Nürburgring again next weekend to continue his preparation for the 24-hour race in May. Verstappen is participating in the ADAC 24h Qualifiers, the qualifying races for the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. The Nordschleife section of the Nürburgring is also nicknamed the ‘Green Hell’ and is known as a dangerous circuit due to the corners and blind hilltops with minimal runoff areas.
“I know I can have a heavy crash here, but I’m not afraid of that,” Verstappen tells ESPN about racing at the Nürburgring. “I actually really enjoy driving here, it puts a smile on my face. Every time I get out of the car here, I’m happy. That’s also what I strive for, to be honest, to have fun. I know it’s a dangerous circuit, but I’m happy to take that risk.”
Read more Bearman calls Colapinto’s move at Suzuka ‘unacceptable’: ‘Could have been much worse’
In addition, the circuit has become much safer over the years, according to Verstappen. “The circuit has, I would say, changed quite a bit compared to the 60s and 70s,” continues the four-time world champion. “Besides, you can crash anywhere. It’s dangerous on many different circuits… I mean, Suzuka is also dangerous. It just depends on how you look at it.”
Gaining even more experience
Verstappen also immediately reveals his goal for the upcoming qualifying races at the Nürburgring: to gain a bit more experience for the 24-hour race. “I might like to drive in the evening or towards dusk sometime. Just to get an idea of what to expect,” he explains. “I’m not worried about it. I just want to do it. The only chance for that, I think, is in one of the qualifying races.”
Read more Domenicali points out two areas for improvement for GP Miami: ‘Firstly the qualification’
Read everything about GP Miami here
