Max Verstappen storms to pole for Nordschleife four-hour endurance race

Max Verstappen has secured pole position for the upcoming four-hour endurance race around the Nordschleife, delivering a commanding late-session performance to put Verstappen Racing at the head of the field.

The Dutchman is contesting the event as part of his preparations for the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in May. Sharing his Mercedes GT3 with Jules Gounon and Dani Juncadella, Verstappen underlined both speed and intent in a dramatic qualifying session interrupted by multiple Code 60 periods.

Early benchmark and interrupted session

Qualifying began with Juncadella at the wheel for Verstappen Racing. He immediately laid down an 8:01.3, the fastest time at that stage, setting an early benchmark around the daunting Nordschleife.

The session was soon neutralised when the #40 Porsche crashed into the wall, triggering a Code 60. Under Nordschleife regulations, this requires drivers to limit their speed to 60 km/h in the affected section to ensure safety.

It was during this interruption that Verstappen took over driving duties for the first time. After several installation laps, he did not improve on Juncadella’s effort and subsequently handed the car to Gounon.

Late surge secures pole

As the session progressed, lap times began to tumble. The #16 Audi of Christopher Haase and Nico Hantke surged to a 7:53, significantly raising the bar.

Gounon was unable to better Verstappen Racing’s benchmark and returned the car to Verstappen for a final push in the closing stages. What followed was decisive.

Verstappen immediately delivered a stunning 7:51, putting him two seconds clear of the rest of the field. It was a statement lap — clinical, commanding, and ultimately untouchable.

Another Code 60 soon followed, preventing any further improvements. With no opportunity for rivals to respond, Verstappen Racing’s pole position was secured.

The margin — a full two seconds on the Nordschleife — stands out as particularly impressive, underlining Verstappen’s authority ahead of the four-hour endurance contest.