30.04.2026
🎫 Ticket demand in advance sales is exceptionally high.For the first time in the history of the 24h Nürburgring, it is possible that – due to the strong pre-sale demand – the box office on-site may not open at all. So: Secure your tickets online early to make sure you don’t miss out! 🚗 A quick note on travel planning:Arrive as early as possible and allow sufficient time – both for accessing the camping areas and for race day itself. We’ll keep you updated with all relevant information in the coming weeks.
29.04.2026
The ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring is more than living up to its reputation as a motorsport festival of superlatives this year: With 161 entered vehicles, it will feature the largest starting field in over a decade—the last time more teams competed in this endurance classic at the Green Hell was in 2014, with 165 vehicles. Because the rush of teams is so great, even the entry regulations—which originally limited the field to 150 participants—are being adjusted. This is also made possible because many racing teams are limiting their space requirements, thereby making room for competitors and colleagues. A first glance at the starting list promises an extremely competitive field with nine GT3 manufacturers and over 40 vehicles in the top class. At the same time, the 2026 race thrives on what has always defined the 24 Hours of Nürburgring: true multi-class racing, featuring world stars, factory drivers, and Nordschleife specialists alongside ambitious privateers. ➡️ Click here to go directly to the starting grid. Max Verstappen, a prominent debutant, is a particular focus of attention. The Formula 1 world champion will be competing with his Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing, sharing the Mercedes-AMG GT3 with Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon, and Daniel Juncadella—three teammates who rank among the absolute best, both in terms of their track record and their Nordschleife expertise. Together, they form a lineup that is likely to set the benchmark for many competitors. The season so far on the Nordschleife also underscores this potential: At the NLS opener, the team initially secured a victory before a disqualification cost them the win; at the Qualifiers in mid-April, they continued their preparations with more laps in the lead before a technical issue forced a retirement. World-class drivers in the leading groupEven beyond the Verstappen car, the 2026 field is exceptionally strong. In the top classes—SP9, SP-Pro, SP-X, and AT1—there are a total of 49 cars competing for the coveted spots in the three-tiered top qualifying. The battle for the best starting positions will therefore be particularly intense this year, and the pressure is already enormous in qualifying. After all, in the “24-hour sprint”—which the endurance classic has evolved into—a good starting position is more important than ever if you want to compete for the overall victory. The defending champions from Rowe-BMW are sending two of their BMW M4 GT3s in pursuit of victory this year—each with a lineup of top factory drivers in the cockpit. Equally strong is the lineup from their brand colleagues at Schubert, who round out the BMW contingent. At Porsche, Manthey is once again leading the charge and sending the “Grello” #911 into the race with Kévin Estre, Thomas Preining, and Ayhancan Güven—meaning there are two DTM champions in the car. Preining secured the title in 2023, while Güven was crowned champion in 2025. Estre, in turn, won the 2021 24 Hours of Nürburgring in the Manthey Porsche. The winners of the 24h Qualifiers, Scherer PHX (Audi), are also represented, while Abt (Lamborghini), Walkenhorst (Aston Martin), Dinamic and Lionspeed (Porsche), HRT (Ford), and other top teams are bringing driver lineups to the Ring that leave little to be desired. Nine manufacturers in the top class, excitement across the entire fieldThe immense quality at the top is also reflected in the diversity of brands. With Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG, and Porsche, nine manufacturers are represented in the top class. In addition, there are a total of 22 other classes where teams are also competing for victories, podium finishes, and prestige. Outside the top group, things are particularly exciting in the GT4s in SP10 (13 starters) as well as in the two Porsche Cup classes (Cup 2 with 11 starters and Cup 3 with 17 starters). And so it becomes clear that the icing on the cake of the 24 Hours of Nürburgring is its diversity: while the battle for overall victory rages at the front, countless other stories unfold across the field, making the race so unique. Huge Starting Grid – Made Possible by Team SpiritThe fact that 161 vehicles will be able to line up at the start in 2026 is by no means a given. This is because the entry regulations previously allowed for a maximum of 150 vehicles—primarily because the space available in the paddock and the pits barely meets the teams’ requirements anymore: where a workshop tent used to suffice for full service for many teams, trucks are now lined up. To still give all the participants mentioned a chance to start, intensive coordination was necessary in recent days. Staff from ADAC North Rhine-Westphalia sought solutions in discussions with numerous teams, reorganized the layout, and scrutinized every square meter that had been requested. Through a great deal of meticulous work, the way was cleared to accommodate the massive starting grid. “We are very pleased with the extraordinary response to the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring 2026,” says Race Director Walter Hornung. “The fact that we can bring this large and high-caliber field to the starting line is only possible because many teams have cooperated. I would like to express my sincere thanks for that. This demonstrates the special spirit of the endurance racing community at the Nordschleife: from world-class stars to private drivers, everyone is pulling together because everyone wants to be a part of this special race.”
28.04.2026
After a great start to the season, the Nürburgring is shifting into high gear this May: The coming month will be dominated by one of the world’s most famous endurance races, will host the German premiere of a unique horsepower festival, and will offer fans plenty of opportunities to get out on the track themselves. Verstappen, cycling, the quarter-mile—there’s something for everyone this May. Information on all events is also available online at nuerburgring.de. Here are the Nürburgring highlights for May: German premiere: Low Scty PS Arena & Bikeforce26 | May 9, 2026On May 9, the Nürburgring will become the center of European automotive and mobility culture. The Low Scty PS Arena is coming to Germany for the first time. The festival is far more than a classic car and tuning meet: on the short section of the Grand Prix circuit, JDM legends will face off against US muscle cars and uncompromising hypercars. A highlight is the “Race402”: In the traditional quarter-mile drag race on the start-finish straight, high-performance cars with a combined total of over 125,000 horsepower will compete in direct duels. At the same time, the hearts of motorcycle fans will race faster at “Bikeforce26.” The stunt bike competition promises pure adrenaline as Europe’s most talented riders showcase their skills. Get up close to the cars and enjoy some racing talk during the Gridwalk at the Drivers’ Parade, as well as at “Cars on Track,” where you can stroll across the race track. Tickets are available starting at 29.99 euros. The Race of the Year on the Nordschleife: ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring | May 14–17, 2026In mid-May, the motorsports world turns its attention to the Eifel. At the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring, man and machine take on the Green Hell—and tens of thousands of fans cheer them on from the track’s perimeter. Even though the final starting grid hasn’t been released as of press time, the organizer has already hinted: This year is going to be packed—both on and off the Nordschleife. All 150 starting spots are filled, and spectator turnout at the qualifying races was massive. One reason: Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen is competing in the 24-hour race this time and aims to claim the endurance crown. Day tickets start at 37.00 euros; the full event experience from Thursday to Sunday can be booked starting at 74.00 euros. For those who want to follow the action from home: In addition to the livestream on YouTube in German and English, the TV channel NITRO will broadcast the entire race. Motorcycle racing and touring car actionThe weekend following the 24-hour race, the Grand Prix circuit will first belong to the bikers: The ADAC / DMC Reinoldus Race Weekend (May 23–24) offers thrilling grassroots racing in numerous classes—from the scooter class to the Yamaha R7 & R3 Cup and the spectacular Northern Sidecar Cup. At 10.00 euros per day, admission is particularly family-friendly. The month’s motorsport events conclude with the DMV Goodyear Racing Days (May 29–31), featuring well-attended touring car and GT series, as well as the Nordschleife specialists from the RCN and GLP on May 30. Get Behind the Wheel Yourself: Green Hell Driving Days, Cycling and Running Meetups & Nordschleife Track WalkFor all those who prefer to take the wheel (or handlebars) themselves, May offers plenty of opportunities to experience the asphalt of the legendary racetrack from the cockpit’s perspective. The Green Hell Driving Days powered by Goodyear kick things off from May 1 to 3: Around Labor Day, the Nordschleife opens its gates to tourist drivers for three consecutive days, from morning until evening.Those who prefer to explore the ideal line at a slower pace and with expert background information can take a look behind the scenes at the Trackwalks Nordschleife on May 8, 22, and 29. Since spots for these exclusive guided tours on foot and by bus are strictly limited, we recommend registering quickly. All information can be found on the Nürburgring website. It’s all about muscle power on May 25 and 30: As soon as the engines fall silent, the track belongs to cyclists and runners during the Bike & Run Meet starting at 7:00 PM. It’s a rare chance to enjoy the famous combinations of curves in the special atmosphere of the evening sun and to conquer the “Green Hell” by bike as a very special challenge. The Nürburgring highlights in May 2026:• May 1–3, 2026: Green Hell Driving Days powered by Goodyear (public driving sessions)• May 9, 2026: Low Scty PS Arena & Bikeforce26• May 14–17, 2026: ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring with RCN and DHLM• May 23–24, 2026: ADAC / DMC Reinoldus Race Weekend• May 25, 2026: Cycling & Running Meetup (Nordschleife & GP Circuit)• May 29–31, 2026: DMV Goodyear Racing Days• May 30, 2026: RCN & GLP
28.04.2026
The news sent shockwaves through the racing world: Max Verstappen will compete in the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring. The four-time Formula 1 world champion is thus capping off a long preparation phase that began with sim racing, continued through NLS races and the mandatory permit for the Nordschleife, and culminated in the prologue at the 24h Qualifiers. When the starting lights turn green on May 16, the Dutchman will become the 35th Formula 1 driver to be immortalized in the 24h’s history. With his four F1 titles, he certainly stands out from the rest. But some of the former 24 Hours drivers among the F1 veterans could and can certainly hold their own against his prominence—from Niki Lauda, who won the endurance classic at the Ring in 1973, to German F1 heroes Christian Danner, Nick Heidfeld, and Timo Glock. Verstappen also leads the statistics in terms of GP starts (236 F1 starts to date). Nelson Piquet (204 GPs) had a similarly extensive career in the premier class before competing at the Ring in 1994. Also unmatched: Verstappen’s four world championship titles, which even Piquet (champion in 1981, ’83, and ’87) as well as the 24-hour race participants Lauda (1975, ’77, and ’84) and Jack Brabham (1959, ’60, and ’66) cannot match. The Australian, who was knighted as “Sir,” came to the Eifel in 1980 but stood no chance in the Karthauser team’s Audi 80. “Striezel” Stuck also remains unmatchedAs a 24-hour rookie, there are naturally some areas where a number of Grand Prix drivers who have competed in the 24 Hours have the edge. For instance, it would take a lot of staying power to match the 19 starts at the 24 Hours that Hans-Joachim Stuck racked up from 1970 to 2011. “Striezel” secured three overall victories during this period—most notably, of course, first place at the inaugural 24 Hours in 1970. Markus Winkelhock has also recorded three victories in his 16 starts to date. However, the most successful former Formula 1 driver at the 24 Hours comes from Portugal: Pedro Lamy racked up five overall victories and six class wins between 2001 and 2010. It wasn’t just Formula 1 drivers who made an appearanceAmong the world-class drivers who found their way to the Ring for the 24 Hours were not only those from Formula 1: With Walter Röhrl (GER), Ari Vatanen (FIN), and Sébastien Loeb (FRA), three bona fide World Rally Champions were also on the starting grid. The Finn claimed one world title (1981), Röhrl two (1980 and 1982), and Loeb as many as nine (2004 to 2012). Not to mention Johnny Cecotto. Before his time in Formula 1 (1983 to 1984), the Venezuelan had won two world titles (1975 and ’78) and 14 race victories in the World Motorcycle Championship. He also made his mark at the 24 Hours of Le Mans during his four starts between 1988 and 1992—he claimed the overall victory in 1992 alongside former Formula 1 driver Christian Danner, as well as Jean-Michel Martin and Marc Duez.
27.04.2026
Due to a short-term system change, online top-ups for tourist drives will only be available until April 30 and are expected to be available again from May 8. The use of existing credit at the access barriers remains fully available without restrictions. Visitors can also continue to top up their credit on-site at any time as usual at the info°center as well as at the Ticket Office Nordschleife. With regard to high-traffic days—especially around the upcoming Green Hell Driving Days powered by Goodyear—it is recommended to top up credit online in good time before April 30. This helps to noticeably reduce waiting times on-site and ensures a smooth start to the driving experience. 👉 TIP: Top up online now and enjoy a smoother experience on site later. ➡️ The option to top up credit is available here.
26.04.2026
Bright sunshine, thousands of motorcycles and a unique atmosphere: the traditional motorcycle church service “Anlassen” at the Nürburgring set a new attendance record this year. A total of 46,000 bikers traveled to the Eifel region, once again turning the Nürburgring into a central meeting point for the European motorcycle community. From the early morning hours, the Grand Prix paddock, the AMG Arena and other areas of the circuit gradually filled with motorcycles from across Germany and neighboring European countries. The tremendous response even surpassed the strong participation of previous years, creating an impressive overall picture of thousands of bikes, passionate petrol conversations and a true sense of community. This year’s “Anlassen” once again offered a diverse program for motorcycle fans. In addition to established safety demonstrations in cooperation with partners such as POLO Motorrad and the motorcycle unit of the Koblenz Police Headquarters, highlights included the trial show by AAC Bad Neuenahr and guided rides on the Grand Prix circuit organized by the Dortmund Motorsport Club. Attractions such as the dynamometer, helmet cleaning service and the POLO pit bike course were just as popular as training sessions by Doc Scholl and the ADAC, as well as the “ADAC Road Racing Academy” for young riders. Visitors also took advantage of insights into the work of the Nürburgring Medical Center and engaged with exhibitors such as Öhlins. At the same time, many attendees participated in charitable initiatives, including blood donations and registration drives with the Stefan Morsch Foundation. Interactive activities and social engagement contributed to the consistently positive and communal atmosphere of the event. Emotional highlights once again included the traditional program elements: during the ecumenical service in the afternoon, Pastor Klaus Kohnz and Andrea Thon-Stein gave their blessing for a safe and accident-free motorcycle season. Immediately afterwards, the joint parade set off onto the legendary Nordschleife. Tens of thousands of motorcycles moved together at a steady pace along the 20.832-kilometer “Green Hell” – a moment that vividly captured the unique spirit of “Anlassen.” Nürburgring responds to high demand with additional space“We were operationally very well prepared – especially in view of the weather forecast, which naturally plays a key role for a motorcycle event. Due to the high number of visitors, we opened additional areas and parking spaces outside the main event zone to relieve pressure on the Grand Prix paddock and the accessible parts of the circuit,” said Nürburgring Managing Director Ingo Böder. “The new attendance record clearly demonstrates the importance of ‘Anlassen’ for the motorcycle community. This combination of passion, community and mutual respect is what makes the event so special every year. It is impressive to see how the Nürburgring transforms into a meeting point for motorcycle fans from across Europe on this day.” Outlook: More two-wheeled highlights at the NürburgringFollowing the successful season opener “Anlassen,” attention now turns to an eventful summer of motorcycle highlights at the Nürburgring. On May 9, the Bike Force event within the Low Scty PS Arena will deliver spectacular action as Europe’s largest stunt bike competition. From May 21 to 24, the ADAC / DMC Reinoldus Race Weekend will focus on grassroots motorsport. A special highlight for nostalgic fans will follow at the BELMOT Oldtimer Grand Prix (August 7–9), where Nordschleife record holder Helmut Dähne is expected to appear with his legendary BMW R90S from the iconic 1976 TT season. The historic theme continues with the Kölner Kurs on August 22–23, before the EURO MOTO – formerly known as IDM – rounds off the motorcycle season with a major race weekend from September 4 to 6.
24.04.2026
At the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, safety and fairness in the event of incidents on the more than 25-kilometer-long Nordschleife will be taken to a new level this year. Starting in 2026, all vehicles—from GT3 race cars to near-production cars—must be equipped with a video telematics system based on “GPS-Auge.” The app-based information and monitoring system was already an important tool in the race control version, for example, to ensure monitoring of Code 60 zones. Now it is being supplemented by a direct view from the cockpit perspective available at any time. The camera must reproduce the driver’s view of the track—giving race directors and stewards another tool to ensure a clean race and a high degree of fairness. Live Access to Onboard CamerasThe highlight of the new system: race control can access the video footage live via the GPS-Auge app. “We can theoretically tune in to any vehicle live via the app,” explains Race Director Walter Hornung. “This allows us to observe situations from the driver’s perspective.” It also gives officials a quick overview of a hazardous spot that appears in the field of view of passing participants. This makes the new technology far more than a conventional onboard camera. For the first time, it’s now possible to access live video footage from every vehicle. Important sequences can be downloaded via remote access for later analysis without a technician having to go to the vehicle in the pits or the paddock—even while the race is in progress. Greater fairness through more video footageIn addition to safety, the system primarily serves the cause of sporting fairness. “In the event of accidents or contentious situations, we can immediately view the videos of the vehicles involved as well as those immediately behind them,” Hornung continues. This enables a neutral assessment of the sequence of events and also makes flag violations, for example, easier to understand. The GPS-Eye system can even download videos automatically. In the past, Code 60 violations were already detected automatically. Now, the corresponding video clips for the vehicles involved are also stored directly in the app and simply need to be reviewed by the officials: Could the driver recognize a flag signal? The rules and fairness officials can now assess this themselves. Long waits for video footage are a thing of the past. Clear Positioning RequirementsThe placement of the camera is clearly specified by the regulations: It must be mounted in the car in such a way that an unobstructed view forward and of the track layout is ensured. The camera’s field of view should correspond to the driver’s field of view without obstructing or restricting the driver’s view. The teams are responsible for ensuring proper installation. This system allows for even more precise monitoring of the drivers. As a result, discussions about what was visible on the track during a given situation become more objective. On the one hand, this eliminates “hiding spots” for drivers. On the other hand, events can now be better understood and evaluated from their perspective—naturally, this also serves to relieve participants and, above all, to enhance sporting fairness in complex racing situations.
21.04.2026
Anyone experiencing the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring as a visitor for the first time will be treated to more than just top-notch racing. The festival atmosphere in the massive event area also comes with plenty of hustle and bustle—including high crowds at many hotspots around the track. To make getting started easy and comfortable, the organizers are now offering an attractive new package: The 24h Newcomer Package is primarily aimed at international guests visiting the Ring for the first time. You’ll receive a clear, easy-to-plan combination of an event ticket (4 days) and exclusive additional services that are well worth the money: The base price for the ticket is €86—parking or a camping spot can be booked as an option. Information and direct links to tickets are available here: The basic offer of the 24h Newcomer Package is valid from Wednesday to Sunday and includes all the benefits of the regular event ticket. These include access to the open grandstands along the Grand Prix circuit, to the spectator areas on the Nordschleife, and entry to the paddock. All fan highlights such as the Pit Walk, Track Walk, and the Drift Show are, of course, included. The 12-euro surcharge on the event ticket guarantees buyers a comfortable racing experience. This is because, as an exclusive additional benefit, it includes access to grandstands T10a and T10b in the Michael Schumacher S section, which is reserved exclusively for ticket holders of this package. This does not include a reserved seat. Free seating continues to apply within the area. Additionally, a dedicated video wall will be set up for this grandstand area so that ticket holders can keep an eye on the racing action at all times—even when the action is taking place on another section of the track. Optional add-ons: Parking and camping near the exclusive grandstandAs additional exclusive benefits, only purchasers of the 24h Newcomer Package can book a parking space or camping spot in the Müllenbach area. In the designated C6 area, you can choose between a five-day parking pass (€50 per vehicle) or a camping pass (€100 per person, including vehicle and trailer or RV). Both options are valid from Wednesday through Sunday—the days with the highest visitor traffic. Camping is a flat-rate package for the 24h and is also valid from Wednesday to Sunday. For those using the camping option, the standard facilities of the temporary campsites around the Nürburgring are available: Temporary restroom facilities (toilets/showers) are provided; however, electrical hookups are not offered. This offer is strictly limited and will be sold while supplies last. Advance sales begin immediately. 24H NEWCOMER PACKAGE AT A GLANCE 💸 Prices• 24h Newcomer Package (Basic Ticket): 86.00 euros / person• Optional: Parking Ticket (Wed. – Sun., Area C6): 50.00 euros / vehicle• Optional: Camping (Wed. – Sun., Area C6, incl. vehicle and trailer or RV): 100.00 euros / person 🎟️ Basic Services Event Ticket (included)• Free seating in all open grandstands (Grand Prix circuit)• Access to all open spectator areas on the Nordschleife• Entry to the paddock• Access to the Pit Walk, Track Walk, and Drift Show, as well as the Fan Mile on the ring°boulevard. 🫱🏼🫲🏼 Exclusive Additional Services• Parking/Camping Area C6 is reserved exclusively for purchasers of the 24h Newcomer Package; arrival possible starting Wednesday• Exclusive grandstand area T10a / T10b (view of the Michael Schumacher S, access control, no seat reservations)• Dedicated video wall for grandstand area T10a / T10b ℹ️ Booking• Information and tickets are available here.
19.04.2026
In the fifth race of the ADAC RAVENOL Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie, Team Scherer Sport PHX secured the overall victory. Driving the Audi R8 LMS GT3 evo II, Christopher Haase, Alexander Sims, and Ben Green crossed the finish line in first place after 28 laps. In second place was the Lamborghini Huracan GT3 EVO2 from Red Bull Team ABT, driven by Luca Engstler, Mirko Bortolotti, and Patric Niederhauser. Thomas Preining and Matt Campbell rounded out the podium, piloting Manthey’s Porsche 911 GT3 R to third place. The top five was completed by Mercedes-AMG Team RAVENOL in the Mercedes-AMG GT3 in fourth place and ROWE RACING in the BMW M4 GT3 in fifth place. In the top qualifying session, which determined the starting grid for the second race of the ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers, the Ferrari 296 GT3 Evo26 from REALIZE KONDO RACING with Rinaldi made a statement: With a lap time of 8:10.275 minutes, Thierry Vermeulen secured pole position. The margin was historically narrow: just a single thousandth of a second separated him from the second-place BMW M4 GT3 from Gamota Racing (8:10.276 min). Starting driver Dennis Marschall initially held onto the lead after the lights went out and battled in the leading group, but fate struck mercilessly after about 40 minutes. During an overtaking maneuver coming out of Brünnchen, the Ferrari collided with a car it was lapping and ended up in the gravel trap. In the first half of the race, the thrilling duel between Christopher Haase in the Scherer Audi and Max Verstappen in the Mercedes-AMG GT3 reignited at the front of the field, appearing to be a carbon copy of their NLS2 duel. Haase enjoyed the once again very respectful battle, but admitted that this time he struggled significantly more due to a lack of balance and oversteer in the cold conditions. Even though the action provided plenty of adrenaline at the command center, according to Steve Buschmann, team manager of Verstappen’s Winward team, Verstappen was given the clear instruction “no risk, take it easy” to avoid jeopardizing his finish. After 90 minutes, however, Verstappen, who was leading, made an unscheduled pit stop, where damage to the front splitter was discovered. “We brought the car in for safety reasons to prevent anything worse from happening, and we’re using the remainder of today’s race as a test run,” said Buschmann. This gave Lucas Auer the opportunity to gain valuable race experience in heavy traffic. The joy among the victorious Audi team was understandably immense following the success. Christopher Haase summed up the day with satisfaction: “Of course, the feedback for the 24-hour race was the most important thing today. Finishing at the top is a nice bonus, but the focus was on working on the setup.” His teammate Ben Green added: “The car felt consistent over the entire distance. We were able to manage the lead well in the final stages.” The final stages were particularly dramatic in the battle for the last podium spot. Thomas Preining (#911) and Fabian Schiller (#80) engaged in an intense duel that lasted for laps, with the two cars often separated by just centimeters. In the end, Preining prevailed and held on to a lead of just under three seconds across the finish line. Speaking into the microphone, Preining described the fierce battle from his perspective: “Fabian tried everything and was right next to me at times, but I was able to close the door every time. It was racing at the absolute limit, but always fair.” In the SP 9 Pro-Am class, the Schnitzelalm Racing team secured the class victory. Kenneth Heyer, Jay Mo Härtling, and Jannes Fittje drove the Mercedes-AMG GT3 (#11) to a strong eighth place in the overall standings. In the SP 9 Am class, the BLACK FALCON Team EAE triumphed. Mustafa Mehmet Kaya, Thomas Kiefer, Gabriele Piana, and Mike Stursberg demonstrated impressive consistency in the Porsche 911 GT3 R (#5). After already shining in qualifying with a tenth-place finish, they were able to confirm this performance in the race and secure the victory in their class. Car number 81 also delivered an impressive performance outside the pure GT3 front-runners. The BMW M3 Touring won the SP-X class and fought its way up to an outstanding seventh place overall, managing to hold its own in the standings even against numerous pure-bred GT3 cars. Sven Markert, Edoardo Bugané, and Benjamin Albers from the Adrenalin Motorsport Team Mainhattan Wheels (winners of the BMW M240i class) as well as Oskar Sandberg and Alexander Fielenbach from Smyrlis Racing (winners of the Cup 3 class) head into a short NLS break until June as mid-season champions after five of ten races. The NLS regulations stipulate that a discard result is only counted after nine races have been completed, and two after ten races. Since the season opener could not start due to weather conditions and the fourth race on Saturday was also abandoned, the season totals eight scored races. This means there are no more discard results this year, and every result counts toward the final driver standings without deduction. Both teams have scored full points at all events so far and therefore jointly lead the standings at the midpoint of the season. Despite all the sporting highlights, Sunday was marked by mourning for Juha Miettinen. The Finnish driver was fatally injured on Saturday in a pile-up during the start of the first race in his BMW 325i (#121). Before Sunday’s start, a deeply emotional moment of silence united the drivers, teams, and fans on the starting grid. Nürburg pastor Klaus Kohns found moving words in his address: “Perhaps this is the most important message we can take away from these days: that we belong together and are there for one another—especially in times of need.” It was a moment of deep solidarity that brought the motorsport community around the Nürburgring closer together and served as a reminder that human connection in such dark hours extends far beyond sporting competition. The qualifiers served as the dress rehearsal for the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring from May 14–17, where the NLS teams make up a large portion of the starting grid. The 1st ADAC Eifel Trophy will kick off the second half of the season in the ADAC RAVENOL Nürburgring Endurance Series on June 20.
