Fog delays qualifying at the Nordschleife as Verstappen readies GT3 debut
Qualifying for the ninth round of the NLS Series at the legendary Nordschleife was delayed due to dense fog, just as thousands of fans tuned in to watch Max Verstappen make his competitive GT3 debut. The session, originally set for 07:30 BST (08:30 CET), was pushed back because of poor visibility across the circuit and the requirement for the medical helicopter to be able to fly should an emergency arise.
Update: Officials confirmed qualifying would begin at 08:00 BST (09:00 CET), with the four-hour race still scheduled to start at 11:00 BST (12:00 CET).
Why the delay matters at the Green Hell
Dense fog is more than an inconvenience at the Nordschleife. Low visibility compromises safety vehicle deployment and, crucially, prevents the circuit helicopter from operating. Without it, track action cannot proceed. For Verstappen’s much-anticipated GT3 bow, it added an extra layer of suspense to an already high-profile outing.
Verstappen’s GT3 step: a bucket-list challenge
Fresh from his dominant Azerbaijan Grand Prix victory, the four-time F1 champion is tackling a four-hour endurance race at the Nürburgring’s full Nordschleife layout, sharing the car with Chris Lulham. Verstappen recently obtained his Nordschleife permit, clearing him to race in VLN/NLS competition at the demanding 20.8km circuit.
Tom Coronel, a seasoned GT racer, described the pull of the track as an addiction: the Nordschleife is the most insane circuit on planet earth, a true bucket-list venue for drivers. He noted that Friday running helps build rhythm for race day and understands why Verstappen wanted to be here as soon as he had his permit.
Weather, tyres and a learning curve — but pace is not in doubt
Coronel cautioned that rapidly changing conditions and tyre calls can reward experience at the Nordschleife. Even so, he expects Verstappen to be in the thick of the fight, confident the Dutchman will be among the fastest and capable of a podium — and potentially a win — if the race runs to plan.
With qualifying compressed by the morning’s fog and the race start time unchanged, execution will be key. All eyes remain on Verstappen as he feeds his relentless love of driving at motorsport’s most intimidating playground.
