Verstappen wins on debut at Nürburgring in Ferrari GT3

Taking advantage of a weekend off for Formula 1, 27-year-old Formula 1 World Champion Verstappen led from the opening lap of the four-hour race and crossed the line to secure a memorable win at the iconic Nordschleife.

A total of 110 cars started the event, with ten entries in the top SP9 category. Verstappen and Lulham contested the race in a Verstappen.com x Red Bull-liveried Ferrari, delivering a faultless performance against seasoned opposition.

Verstappen qualified third but made a rapid start, seizing the lead into Turn 1 and staying in control through his two opening stints: “It was great. During my first two stints, the car was amazing. After qualifying, I knew the car would be good on a dry track. Everything went well in terms of traffic, and we didn't make any big mistakes. To win my debut race here is amazing.”

The Dutchman also hinted at future ambitions: “Of course, we really want to race the 24-hour race here at the Nordschleife. If that's going to be next year, I don't know yet. Of course we need more experience, so hopefully we can enter a few more NLS races next year.”

After Verstappen had built a lead of over a minute, Lulham took over and controlled the second half of the race despite multiple crashes and lengthy ‘code 60’ slow zones. A late neutralisation reduced his margin to just 24 seconds, but he kept the Ferrari clear of trouble to secure the victory.

“The car was amazing,” Lulham said. “There was a lot of traffic and several accidents and 'code 60' situations, which didn't make it easy for me. I'm so happy. I've got to thank Verstappen.com Racing and Emil Frey Racing for offering me this package to make such a strong NLS debut.”

Verstappen’s fastest lap of 7:51.514 was just two seconds shy of the NLS record. His stint management, combined with Lulham’s composure in the closing stages, underlined the duo’s dominance on one of motorsport’s most demanding circuits.

The victory marks a new chapter for Verstappen, who continues to explore racing opportunities beyond Formula 1 while still in his prime. Limited edition merchandise has been launched by Verstappen.com to commemorate his GT3 debut, including ‘For the Love of Racing’ apparel and scale models of the Ferrari 296 GT3.

With eyes now set on a potential 24 Hours of Nürburgring entry, Verstappen’s successful debut leaves little doubt that he could add endurance racing honours to his growing collection of accolades.