Max Verstappen’s Debut in the Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie: What You Need to Know
Max Verstappen, the reigning champion of Formula 1, is set to make headlines as he participates in the 65th ADAC ACAS Cup, part of the Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS). This event, taking place at the iconic Nurburgring, is not only a significant moment for Verstappen but also highlights the unique endurance racing format in Germany. Below, we’ll explore the intricacies of the NLS, Verstappen’s involvement, and what fans can expect.
Understanding the Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS)
The Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie, commonly referred to as NLS, is a prestigious endurance racing championship held on the famous Nurburgring Nordschleife. Known for its challenging layout and rich motorsport history, the Nurburgring has been a proving ground for countless racers and car manufacturers alike.
The 2025 NLS season comprises ten races spread over eight weekends, with two of these events serving as qualifying rounds for the renowned 24-hour race at Nurburgring scheduled for June. This particular weekend features a thrilling double-header, including the 65th ADAC ACAS Cup and the 64th ADAC Reinoldus-Langstreckenrennen. Each race typically spans four hours, with teams consisting of two, three, or four drivers.
Max Verstappen’s Racing Class and Vehicle
In the NLS, competitors race in various classes, ranging from top-tier GT3 vehicles to touring cars and production models. Each class is further categorized based on engine size, allowing for a diverse range of entries.
Although Verstappen’s name has not yet appeared on the provisional entry list, he is anticipated to race for Lionspeed GP. He will likely pilot a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport (CS) in the SP7 class. Verstappen is expected to alternate between the #89 Cayman in the SP7 category and the #980 Cayman in the Cup 3 category.
The SP7 class is primarily comprised of GT4 vehicles with engine displacements between 3.5 liters to 4.0 liters, ranking just below the leading SP9 class that features GT3 cars. Therefore, while Verstappen aims for class victories, he is not in contention for overall race wins in this format.
Verstappen’s Companions on the Track
In addition to Verstappen, the two Caymans will also feature Chris Lulham, a teammate from Verstappen.com Racing, who competes in the GT World Challenge Europe Endurance Cup. Lulham races an Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 Evo and is also involved with Emil Frey Racing in the GTWC Sprint Cup.
Joining the driving roster for the Caymans are Belgian driver Matisse Lismont and American IMSA regular Kyle Tilley. Both cars are only registered for Saturday’s race, but if either fails to finish, there is a possibility for a Sunday entry to secure the necessary classified finish for Verstappen.
Goals for Max Verstappen at the NLS
Verstappen made waves during a test session in May when he unofficially set a GT3 lap record at the Nordschleife, but this weekend’s objective is more nuanced. Due to the absence of a specific racing permit, known as Permit A, his vehicle will be subject to restrictions that prevent him from achieving maximum performance.
The Porsche Cayman GT4 in its standard configuration delivers an output of 425 horsepower and weighs in at 1,315 kilograms, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of 3.1 kilograms per horsepower. However, first-time participants at the Nordschleife are restricted to a minimum power-to-weight ratio of 4.2 kilograms per horsepower, necessitating a detuning of the car, regardless of the driver’s pedigree.
In its "Permit B spec," the Cayman will produce just over 300 horsepower at a weight of 1,350 kilograms. This adjustment significantly reduces Verstappen’s chances of clinching a class victory, let alone setting any lap records.
Navigating the Permit System
The DMSB Permit Nordschleife, commonly known as the Nordschleife license, is a two-tier system designed to ensure that all drivers experience the challenges of racing in slower cars before advancing to faster machines. To obtain Permit A, which would allow Verstappen to compete with a more powerful vehicle, he needs to secure two classified race results.
This can be achieved through participation in two different cars during the same race, which is why Verstappen’s participation in both Lionspeed’s Caymans is essential. To fulfill the permit requirements, he must complete a minimum of 14 laps and cover at least 20% of the race distance in each car.
In a typical four-hour race, the Caymans can complete around 25 to 26 laps, meaning Verstappen could easily meet the criteria with two stints of around seven laps each. The underlying goal of this permit system is to foster respect among drivers, ensuring that they are attuned to the dynamics of endurance racing before stepping up to higher-performance vehicles.
Despite its intentions, this permit system has attracted criticism over the years. Detractors argue that it creates unnecessary barriers and serves as a financial opportunity for race organizers. Notably, legendary MotoGP racer Valentino Rossi has publicly expressed his reluctance to compete at the Nordschleife for this very reason. In contrast, supporters, including the drivers’ working group at the Nurburgring, believe that the license has positively impacted race flow.
The ultimate aim for Verstappen is to eventually gain permission to compete in the top-tier GT3 category, ideally with his own team, which would allow him to leverage his extensive experience.
Watching Max Verstappen in Action
For fans eager to catch Verstappen in action, all NLS series rounds, including the 65th ADAC ACAS Cup, will be available for viewing on Motorsport.tv without charge. The livestream for both days kicks off at 8:15 AM local CEST for qualifying sessions, with race broadcasts beginning at 11:15 AM leading up to the race start at noon.
This race marks a significant milestone in Verstappen’s career, as he transitions from the high-octane world of Formula 1 to the endurance racing circuit. With the unique challenges and exhilarating atmosphere of the Nurburgring, fans and racing enthusiasts alike are in for a treat.
As the excitement builds for this weekend’s races, all eyes will be on Verstappen as he embarks on this new chapter in his illustrious racing career. Whether he meets his objectives or not, his participation in the NLS is sure to bring additional attention to this thrilling endurance series.
