Max Verstappen’s debut at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring started off encouragingly this Thursday. The Formula 1 driver led the timing table during his initial stint and made it clear that he did not enter the traditional German race just to participate.
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Competing for Verstappen Racing with a Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO from the SP9 class, the Dutchman faces the challenge of the legendary Nordschleife for the first time. Although the main battle for pole position only takes place in Friday’s Top Qualifying, the first sessions served as important preparation for Verstappen and his teammates Daniel Juncadella, Jules Gounon, and Lucas Auer.
The four-time F1 world champion highlighted his expectation to drive during the night on the circuit known as the “Green Hell.” “It will probably be the best feeling. You are alone, accelerating in the dark. Usually, the car gets faster at night, so I am looking forward to that,” he said to Verstappen.com.
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Even without previous experience in 24-hour races, Verstappen showed ambition when talking about the goal at the event. “Success means winning. It’s very simple, that’s why we are here. I know it won’t be easy, but that is everyone’s goal. At the same time, I am also looking forward to the full experience, sharing the car with my teammates and working throughout the weekend,” he added.
The first qualifying session had tense moments, including a heavy accident involving the cars of Jolina Schal and Alexander Hartt. On the track, Verstappen drew attention by setting a time of 8:18.539 during his hour in the car, more than eight seconds ahead of Jordan Pepper from BMW. After the change to Juncadella and the arrival of rain at the end of the session, Verstappen Racing finished the practice in third overall.
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