Verstappen confirms GT3 debut in NLS with Emil Frey Ferrari 296
It is now official: Max Verstappen will make his GT3 race debut this weekend in the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Series (NLS). The four-time Formula 1 world champion will share an Emil Frey–run Ferrari 296 GT3 in Verstappen.com Racing colours with Chris Lulham for Saturday’s four-hour race on the Nordschleife.
The start comes just two weeks after Verstappen secured his Nordschleife licence by contesting an NLS round in a restricted Porsche Cayman GT4. With the paperwork in hand, he steps up to the GT3 class and is expected to be in contention for overall victory despite it being his first competitive outing at this level.
The car and the team
Verstappen will drive a Ferrari 296 GT3 prepared by Emil Frey Racing. The entry carries Verstappen.com Racing branding and pairs him with British driver Chris Lulham for the four-hour distance.
Driver’s words
“It is my passion to do these kinds of GT3 races too. I can’t wait! I’m passionate about racing, also outside of Formula 1. Every lap at the Nordschleife is a different kind of experience… It’s my hobby to race in other categories than Formula 1. My dream is to eventually participate in the 24‑hour race at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.”
What to expect
Even as a debutant in GT3 machinery, Verstappen’s recent mileage on the Nordschleife and his partnership with an experienced GT squad have set expectations high for a strong result.
