04.05.2026
The digitization of the legendary Nordschleife reached the next level in the summer of 2024. Following a two-year construction phase and an investment of approximately twelve million euros, a network of 100 cameras and 46 LED panels is providing a new level of safety. Until now, the upgrade has only been used for tourist drives, track days, and test runs. At this year’s ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring, this system will now be fully integrated into race operations for the first time. Seamless connectivityThe system is based on 100 cameras and 46 LED panels installed along the entire track. Thanks to the installation of 80 kilometers of electrical and data cables, the entire Nordschleife—including all 73 turns—can be monitored seamlessly. During normal operations on the Nürburgring Nordschleife—such as public driving sessions—not all track marshal posts are staffed; however, the cameras and panels allow vehicles on the track to be tracked and warnings issued in a timely manner if problems arise. At the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, this feature provides an added safety benefit. In the event of incidents—such as technical malfunctions, accidents, or slippery spots—race control can react even more quickly. “For nearly two years now, this digitalization step has allowed us to improve the flow of tourist and test drives,” reports Ingo Böder, Managing Director of Nürburgring GmbH. “Now we’re pleased that the 24 Hours of Nürburgring can also benefit from this.” Greater Safety Even in DaylightDuring public driving sessions and track days, the 46 LED panels along the GP circuit and the Nordschleife are designed to warn drivers of hazards hundreds of meters in advance, thereby preventing accidents. During the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, these will be used to assist drivers and track marshals. The focus here is on increasing safety in daylight conditions. They exclusively display the flag signal shown by the respective track marshal. Unlike the flags, the panels have no relevance under motorsport regulations. As darkness falls, the flags will be replaced by light signals, as has been the case in the past. In conjunction with other measures—such as the Incident Camera System, which enables live transmission from all cockpits—the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring is taking another major step forward in the area of safety.
04.05.2026
Due to several construction and renovation projects, traffic restrictions are currently in place on major roads around the Nürburgring. Please take this into account when traveling to the area and follow the posted detours. We have compiled the most important information for you below. For further details, please visit the website of the Rhineland-Palatinate State Mobility Agency. B 257 - Asphalt work in the town of Müllenbach continues due to weather conditionsThe asphalt work underway since March 18 in the town of Müllenbach along the B 257 is expected to continue beyond March 31. This is due to the weather conditions forecast for the coming week, which are not expected to allow for the asphalt to be laid as scheduled. The work will therefore be postponed by approximately two weeks. As soon as weather conditions permit, the asphalt will be laid immediately. For the duration of the work, the affected section of the road will remain fully closed. During this time, traffic will be diverted from Wiesemscheid via the B 258 toward the Nürburgring, via the L 94 toward Welcherath, and via the B 410 toward Kelberg. The town of Müllenbach can only be accessed via Kelberg during the construction period. ℹ️ The detour is clearly signposted on site. L 93 – Road resurfacing between Müllenbach and the Nürburgring has begunSince March 24, the L 93 between Müllenbach and the Nürburgring has been undergoing extensive resurfacing. For structural and safety reasons, this work can only be carried out under a full closure. During this time, traffic will be diverted over a wide area via the B 257 toward Kelberg, and from there via the B 410 toward Hünerbach, connecting to the K 89 and L 94. Local traffic to the ADAC Driver Safety Center at the Nürburgring will be maintained via a temporary access road. The schedule for the asphalt work will be coordinated in advance with the Driver Safety Center to adjust operational procedures accordingly. Following the road resurfacing, the guardrail system will be completely replaced. For this work, a single-lane closure with traffic light control is planned. ℹ️ Current information on this, particularly regarding traffic routing, can be found in the Mobility Atlas at here.
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
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.
28.04.2026
Engines roar, tires smoke, and adrenaline levels soar: The Nürburgring Drift Cup 2026, presented by Skylimit Events, is in the starting blocks and promises a season that will generate huge interest among fans. With a top-tier international field of competitors set to deliver spectacular side-by-side battles and precise tandem drifting, spectators, drivers, and teams can look forward to a season in a class of its own. The drift drivers will give it their all on technically demanding high-speed tracks to hit the clip points perfectly and claim the prestigious title. The 2026 season focuses on the sporting challenge and the quality of the drift action. The combination of intense competition, top international drivers, and the unique flair of the Nordschleife makes the Nürburgring Drift Cup one of the most popular championships in the European drift scene. Three rounds of pure passion: The 2026 scheduleThe championship will be contested over three intense rounds that will demand everything from the drivers. Fans can watch the races live on-site or via the YouTube livestream. Round 1: April 24–26 Round 2: July 31–August 2 Round 3: September 4–6 The three main races of the 2026 season promise thrilling action and pure adrenaline. The first round takes place from April 24 to 26, followed by the second round from July 31 to August 2. The season finale is the third round from September 4 to 6, when the championship titles will be awarded. May 15 marks a special highlight: On the eve of the legendary 24-hour race at the Nürburgring, the Falken Drift Show will transform the racetrack into a madhouse of speed and style—an absolute must-see for every motorsports fan, guaranteeing breathtaking drifting displays and spectacular maneuvers. International spectacle and big names at 180 km/hThe season opener in April is already setting new standards. Thanks to the partnership with the European series “Drift Kings,” an impressive field is expected—in 2025, there were already over 80 drivers from 19 nations. One thing is certain: the 2025 champions plan to defend their titles in the new season—registration is now open. The races will take place on the iconic Müllenbachschleife. While the first two rounds feature the classic layout with speeds of up to 180 kilometers per hour in the “Schumacher S” and tight drifts through “Klein Monaco,” a special challenge awaits in the final: A special layout challenges the stars of the drift scene at 170 kilometers per hour and requires precise gear changes from fifth to second gear—pure vehicle control at the limit. In the final of the third round, the drivers start on the section of the track between the Ford Curve and the Goodyear Hairpin. The cars reach speeds of up to 170 kilometers per hour before entering the hairpin after two “flicks” and a “big entry.” At the end of the hairpin is a turning point, which means the cars must downshift from fifth to fourth gear in the Goodyear hairpin, shift into second gear for the hairpin, and then accelerate back up to fourth gear without losing their drift angle. Opportunities for Pros and Up-and-ComersTo provide a stage for both established top drivers and up-and-coming talent, the field is divided into two categories: PRO: The premier class for experienced drivers and high-performance cars.CLUB: The ideal platform for vehicles with limited tire width and drivers looking to gain valuable competition experience. (When the Drift Kings are participating, PRO2 is the equivalent of CLUB.) In addition, the series promotes driver development through integrated drift school sessions on Fridays as well as monthly test days in Zolder (Belgium) and Meppen (Germany). The Format: Thrills in a Knockout SystemSuspense is guaranteed right up to the last second. After qualifying on Saturday, the top 32 drivers in each class compete against each other in direct duels (“Battles”) on Sunday. In this knockout system, drivers must set the ideal line as the “Leader” and, as the “Chaser,” pursue their opponent with maximum pressure. A jury decides on victory and defeat in a drift race based on four criteria: speed, line choice, drift angle, and individual style. High speed is crucial, just as in classic motorsports, though drivers must adhere to the jury’s prescribed ideal line to earn high scores. The Chaser must not only stay on the Leader’s heels but also impress with aggressive driving. In addition to podium finishes, special awards such as “Best Chase Run” or “Most Exciting Driver” are also presented. The 2026 season will be more than just a championship—it is a test of precision, courage, and pure passion for motorsports.
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
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.
