Mercedes is attempting to negotiate a postponement of the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie opening round to enable Max Verstappen‘s participation in the 2025 season. The German manufacturer faces a scheduling conflict that could prevent the four-time world champion from competing in the iconic 24-hour race at the Nürburgring later this year. The season opener, scheduled for 14 March, clashes directly with the Chinese Grand Prix weekend, creating a regulatory hurdle that threatens Verstappen’s plans to compete in one of endurance racing’s most prestigious events.
Calendar clash threatens Verstappen’s endurance racing debut with Mercedes
The scheduling conflict presents a significant obstacle for Verstappen.com Racing, which has switched to Mercedes machinery for the 2025 NLS campaign. Series regulations require drivers to compete in the opening round to maintain eligibility for the 24-hour race, a rule that puts Verstappen’s endurance ambitions in direct conflict with his Formula 1 commitments. The Chinese Grand Prix weekend occupies the same 14 March date, making it impossible for the Red Bull Racing driver to fulfil both obligations.
Mercedes-Benz chairman Ola Källenius and motorsport director Toto Wolff have reportedly submitted a formal request to series organisers seeking a calendar adjustment. The German manufacturer views Verstappen’s participation as a significant marketing opportunity and a testament to the Nürburgring’s enduring appeal among top-tier racing drivers. Red Bull Racing has already granted Verstappen permission to compete in the endurance classic, removing one potential barrier to his participation.
Series boss confirms request but offers no guarantees
NLS series chief Mike Jager acknowledged receiving the postponement request from Mercedes representatives but emphasised that no decision has been reached. The situation requires careful consideration of multiple stakeholders, including other competing teams, circuit availability, and the broader calendar structure that governs German endurance racing. Any schedule modification would need to accommodate not just Verstappen’s availability but also maintain the integrity of the championship format.
The request places series organisers in a delicate position, balancing the prestige of having a reigning Formula 1 world champion on the grid against the practical considerations of rescheduling an established racing series. Precedent for such adjustments remains limited, though the potential media attention and commercial benefits of Verstappen’s participation could influence the final decision.
Verstappen’s endurance ambitions extend beyond Formula 1
The four-time world champion has made no secret of his interest in competing outside Formula 1, particularly in endurance racing disciplines. His move to Mercedes equipment through Verstappen.com Racing signals a serious commitment to establishing a presence in long-distance competition. The 24-hour race at the Nürburgring represents one of motorsport’s ultimate tests, combining driver skill, mechanical reliability, and strategic execution across a full day of competition on the legendary Nordschleife circuit.
Verstappen’s participation would bring unprecedented attention to the NLS series, potentially attracting new audiences and commercial partners. The presence of an active Formula 1 champion competing in a regional endurance championship would create a unique crossover moment, highlighting the versatility required of top-level racing drivers. However, his involvement depends entirely on resolving the calendar conflict that currently prevents compliance with series eligibility requirements.
What this means for the decision ahead
Series organisers face a deadline-driven decision that will either enable or prevent one of Formula 1’s biggest stars from competing in their championship. The commercial appeal of Verstappen’s participation must be weighed against the logistical challenges of rescheduling an established race date, particularly with teams already committed to the original calendar. Mercedes’s direct involvement in the request underscores the strategic importance the manufacturer places on securing Verstappen’s presence in their endurance programme.
Should the postponement be granted, it would set a significant precedent for accommodating Formula 1 drivers in regional racing series. If denied, Verstappen would face a choice between skipping the season opener and forfeiting his 24-hour race eligibility, or finding an alternative pathway within the regulations. The resolution will likely emerge in the coming weeks as teams finalise their preparations for the NLS season and Formula 1’s pre-season testing concludes.
