01.08.2026
A year before its 100th anniversary, the Nürburgring is a versatile event venue that hosts a wide range of events alongside thrilling motor racing. The origins of the development that led to today’s Nürburgring – comprising the Grand Prix circuit and the Nordschleife – date back over 50 years. At the centre of events in the 1970s was a man whose accident on the Nordschleife marks its 50th anniversary this year: Niki Lauda. During the so-called ‘Golden Age of Motorsport’ in the 1950s and 1960s, car racing was many times more dangerous than it is today. Following a series of tragic accidents on racetracks around the world, drivers developed a new awareness of their health. This sparked a debate in the late 1960s about safety in motor racing, which primarily concerned the 22.835-kilometre-long Nürburgring. Too unsafe, too dangerous, and in many respects no longer fit for purpose – that was the verdict of many racing drivers. The Formula 1 boycott of the Eifel circuit in 1970 led to extensive safety modifications, carried out in stages over several years, during which the character of the Nürburgring underwent a fundamental transformation. Formula 1 deemed the modifications sufficient the following year and returned to the Eifel, initially for two periods of three years each. Even though serious accidents continued to occur from time to time despite the safety measures, the premier class returned to the Nürburgring again in the summer of 1976 – for what was to be the last race at the Eifel circuit for the time being, due to the expiring contract. Despite the extensive improvements, however, voices were once again raised in the run-up to this event – notably that of Niki Lauda – arguing that the combination of the Nordschleife and Formula 1 was simply too dangerous and that the race should be cancelled. As is well known, the 1976 Grand Prix went ahead as planned nonetheless. In the second lap of the race, however, it was none other than the Austrian – who had been met with hostility by many fans over the race weekend for his comments against the Nürburgring – who lost control of his Ferrari 312T2 in the left-hand bend at the Bergwerk section. The car crashed through the safety barriers, struck the embankment and was hurled back onto the track in flames. Other cars were unable to swerve out of the way; Lauda was left unconscious in the burning Ferrari and survived only thanks to the successful rescue efforts of some of his fellow drivers. This incident made it clear even to the Nürburgring’s supporters that new solutions were needed. Although the race was later restarted, 1 August 1976 marks a turning point in the long history of the Nürburgring. In the aftermath of the race, with the events still fresh in everyone’s minds, the idea that Formula 1 would return seemed out of the question. Lauda, who had spoken out against a Grand Prix with Formula 1 cars at the Nürburgring but did not reject the circuit itself, fought his way back into the cockpit in the weeks that followed despite suffering extremely serious injuries, and only narrowly missed out on the 1976 World Championship. When reflecting on the events of the summer of 1976, it is often claimed that Lauda’s accident was the main and sole reason for the Nordschleife being dropped as the venue for the German Grand Prix. Accusations arose from many quarters that Lauda was the ‘gravedigger of Formula 1 at the Nordschleife’. However, the final decision on this matter was not taken immediately after the race in August 1976. It was not until March 1977, after many factors had been considered, that Formula 1 drivers’ representatives decided, following a track inspection, that no further top-flight races would take place on the Nordschleife. To blame Lauda personally for the withdrawal of Formula 1 from the Nürburgring in the mid-1970s would therefore be just as wrong as to claim that his stance caused long-term damage to the Nürburgring. Rather, it can be said that the absence of the country’s most important sporting event, combined with the Austrian’s words of warning, set in motion a process of reflection which ultimately led to the decision to build the Grand Prix circuit. This new, significantly shorter circuit – designed first and foremost with safety in mind – was intended to secure the future of the Nürburgring and, with it, the future of an entire region. Construction work began in November 1981, and the new circuit was opened in May 1984. Ayrton Senna, who was still a much lesser-known figure at the time, won the inaugural race, which was attended not only by several Formula 1 world champions but also by Lauda himself, who was full of praise for the new circuit. Since the mid-1980s, the Grand Prix circuit has been a key factor in the future of the Nürburgring. One man, whom many would probably not have expected, played a part in improving safety on the new circuit: Niki Lauda. Having drawn attention to safety issues on the Nordschleife in the mid-1970s, he now used his experience to help develop the Nürburgring further. Even though this circuit had left a lasting mark on his life, Lauda – who passed away in 2019 – contributed in many ways to securing the future of the Nürburgring. His legacy in relation to the Nürburgring lies in the transformation he initiated – and this transformation has helped to make the Nürburgring what it is today: the world’s most beautiful race track, which, even in its 99th year of existence, continues to attract countless fans from all over the world to the Eifel.
30.07.2026
This coming Saturday (1 August), the traditional KW 6h ADAC Ruhr-Pokal-Rennen will take centre stage as the season highlight of the ADAC RAVENOL Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie. With 50 percent more racing than the regular four-hour events, the six-hour spectacle on the legendary Nordschleife promises even more action, strategy and drama. With favourable weather conditions forecast, the entry list features a thrilling and diverse field: from brand-new GT3 projects and emotional comebacks to unique grassroots racing stories. Tickets are here available from 25 Euro, while youngsters up to and including the age of 14 enjoy free admission. Fans unable to attend in person can follow all the action live and free of charge from 08:15 (race start at 12:00) via the official livestream. A rolling work of art celebrating family: Tribute to the Porsche MuseumThe six-hour race will feature a historic highlight on the Nordschleife. An exclusively designed Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS Clubsport serves as a rolling work of art, creating a bridge between history, architecture and modern customer racing. What makes this project particularly special is the family spirit behind it: for this one-off appearance, the teams from Porsche Heritage and Museum, the motorsport specialists from Weissach, and Team 75 Motorsport are working hand in hand. The car pays tribute to Porsche's successful GT4 customer racing heritage while also marking the farewell of the very last mid-engine race car of this model line built in Zuffenhausen, featuring a design inspired by the futuristic architecture of the Porsche Museum. The spectacular anniversary entry will be driven by two true Nordschleife icons and Porsche brand ambassadors: Timo Bernhard and Jörg Bergmeister. Both bring extensive Eifel experience to the cockpit – Bernhard has celebrated ten overall victories in the NLS, while Bergmeister has claimed two overall wins. For the first time, the two Nordschleife legends will share the cockpit of a GT4 race car and are eagerly looking forward to the challenge, with the Eifel circuit being one of their favourite tracks. Coming out of retirement: Passion and high-revving Civic Type R soundsProviding the perfect contrast to the factory-supported anniversary project is the entry of Mark Giesbrecht, Frank Kuhlmann and Michael Flehmer, who perfectly embody the diversity and grassroots character of the NLS. The trio consists of genuine Nordschleife veterans. Flehmer leads the group with an impressive 42 class victories and crowned his career with the overall NLS title in 2014 alongside Rolf Derscheid. Giesbrecht and Kuhlmann complete the experienced line-up, each having celebrated 26 class victories in the series. The fact that their faithful Honda Civic Type R will line up for the six-hour race is an emotional twist in their season plans and perhaps only the beginning of their return, as Giesbrecht explains: "For us, it's basically a comeback from retirement. We originally planned to compete in the DHLM this year, but had to postpone those plans due to scheduling conflicts. After sitting on the sidelines for half a season, we simply couldn't stay away any longer. We decided at short notice to enter the six-hour race and if everything goes well, we'll definitely add one or two more races this season. Everyone in the team was immediately excited, and we're really looking forward to bringing a genuine two-litre Group H car back to the fans on the Nordschleife." Long-awaited racing comeback: Ralf Aron returns after injuryGT3 fans can look forward to an emotional highlight. Around five months after his serious accident at the Bathurst 12 Hour, Mercedes-AMG Performance driver Ralf Aron is returning to racing. The 28-year-old Estonian, who suffered two fractured vertebrae in February, will make his comeback in the Mercedes-AMG GT3 of Mercedes-AMG Team RAVENOL during the seventh NLS round. Following months of intensive rehabilitation, Aron is delighted to be back: "The motorsport community gave me incredible strength during this time. After rehabilitation and intensive training, everything immediately felt right again during the tests in May. I'm even happier now that my first race weekend is finally here." He will share the cockpit with newly crowned 24h Nürburgring winner Luca Stolz, who celebrates his 31st birthday during the race weekend. GT3 category continues to grow: New projects with long-term ambitionsSpeaking of GT3, the NLS's premier category welcomes several exciting new additions for the season highlight. Alongside the established contenders, several teams are launching fresh projects—many with long-term ambitions. One particularly exciting debut comes from American team ERA Motorsport, well known from IMSA competition. The team will field a Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO customer racing car on the Nordschleife for the first time, entering Kyle Tilley, Adam Christodoulou and Jake Hill in the SP9 Pro-Am class. Another eye-catching return comes from Dörr Motorsport, entering the spectacular McLaren 720S GT3 in SP9 Am for brothers Ben Dörr and Phil Dörr, alongside Nordschleife legend Volker Strycek. Reigning NLS champions FK Performance Motorsport will also reach a major milestone. After securing last year's overall title, the Bremen-based team makes its GT3 debut on the Nordschleife with a BMW M4 GT3 Evo driven by an impressive quartet consisting of BMW factory driver Dan Harper, Leyton Fourie, Maxime Oosten and Pavel Lefterov. Meanwhile, Joos Sportwagentechnik is making the long-term step into SP9 Am with a Porsche 911 GT3 R for team owner Michael Joos, Nordschleife regular Fidel Leib, and Marco Lamsouguer. Their ambitions extend far beyond the six-hour race, as Joos explains: "Since our test last year, we've been working on our own GT3 programme for the Nordschleife. We'll compete in the remaining four NLS races this season with the 911 GT3 R. Our goal is to gain as much experience as possible and build a solid foundation for a long-term commitment to the series." Completing the line-up is team up2race, making its NLS debut with its gold-coloured Porsche 911 GT3 R, affectionately nicknamed "Goldy". In SP9 Pro-Am, DTM star and former sim racer Tim Heinemann will share the cockpit with former professional footballer Oleksii Kikireshko, whom Heinemann also coaches. International star power and Permit A challenge at Four MotorsSustainable racing team Four Motors also adds a fascinating story to the entry list. Their Bioconcept Car #420 (Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport) will be shared by an outstanding international trio: Australian WEC driver and Le Mans class winner Yasser Shahin, reigning Porsche Junior Marcus Amand from France, and Italian Enzo Trulli, son of former Formula 1 driver Jarno Trulli.For all three drivers, the seventh NLS round also represents an important milestone as they complete their DMSB Permit Nordschleife A in the Bioconcept race car, securing the highest licence level required for future appearances in the top classes of the Green Hell. Tickets for the race weekend cost 25 Euro (children up to and including the age of 14 receive free admission) and are available here as well as at the ticket offices on site. The ticket includes access to the open grandstands at the Grand Prix circuit, the spectator areas at Brünnchen and Pflanzgarten, as well as the paddock, pit lane and starting grid.Qualifying takes place on Saturday morning from 08:30 to 10:00. Afterwards, fans can get up close to the cars and drivers during the Pitwalk in the pit lane from 10:20, followed by the Gridwalk on the starting grid from 11:10. The six-hour race begins at 12:00.Those unable to attend can tune in to the official livestream from 11:15 or follow the action via Radio Nürburgring on rpr1.de and in the RPR1 App.
28.07.2026
August: Motorsport Month: Over the coming weeks, one top-class racing event after another will take place at the Nürburgring. The highlights will be the DTM races (14–16 August) and the Oldtimer Grand Prix (7–9 August). But the GT World Challenge (28–30 August) and the 6-hour race of the Nürburgring Endurance Series (1 August) are also definitely worth a trip to the Eifel. Here are the Nürburgring highlights for August: Two extra hours in the Green Hell: the NLS 6-hour race | 1 August 2026An extra dose of racing on the Nordschleife: the traditional 6-hour race of the ADAC RAVENOL Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie is coming up. But the seventh NLS round of the year offers far more than just two extra hours of racing. Fans can look forward to a long race day in August with a well-filled starting grid. Even after the 24-hour race, the organisers were recently delighted with high entry numbers, so we can expect well over 100 racing cars. These include lightning-fast GT cars, numerous production-based touring cars and an ever-increasing number of vehicles running on alternative fuels. For 25 euros (children under 14 free), fans gain access to the grandstands, the paddock and even the pit walk, as well as the starting grid before the race. Anyone wishing to enjoy an endurance race as an exclusive experience can opt for the VIP ticket for 295 euros, which includes a guided bus tour of the Nordschleife, a VIP shuttle to the circuit, and delicious food and drinks. There is also the ‘RACE & LUNCH’ ticket, available for 210 euros. Dream cars of yesteryear: 53rd BELMOT Classic Car Grand Prix | 7 to 9 August 2026Year after year, it’s Germany’s most beautiful automotive journey through time – and 2026 is no exception, with a star-studded line-up. On the second weekend in August, the 53rd BELMOT Classic Car Grand Prix will become a reunion of motorsport legends. Racing greats such as Uwe Alzen, Christian Danner and Leopold, Prince of Bavaria, will be getting behind the wheel once again. Meanwhile, on the tarmac of the Nürburgring Grand Prix circuit, a lightning-fast and thunderously loud museum of motorsport awaits: the line-up ranges from Group 5 monsters such as the fiery Ford Capri Turbo, through timeless rarities like the Porsche 550 A Spyder and Aston Martin DB4 GT, to Formula cars from various eras. Cars from the DTM – including the 2012 BMW championship-winning car – bridge the gap to the more recent past. The Saturday evening race featuring historic sports cars is traditionally a highlight. Fans can experience this feast for the eyes and ears from as little as 35 euros – including access to the paddock; the full weekend can be booked from 89 euros. Children and young people up to the age of 17 go free. The VIP packages, starting at 450 euros, promise first-class comfort in a historic setting. Big names, thrilling racing: DTM at the Nürburgring | 14 to 16 August 2026 Glock, Grello or 24-hour winner Maro Engel: in mid-August, the big names in German motorsport will return to the Nürburgring. At stake is the DTM crown – for more than 40 years, THE racing series in our country. Their arena? The Nürburgring’s sprint circuit: 3.629 kilometres – short, tight and renowned for lap-after-lap battles for position. Fans can look forward to two days of racing on Saturday and Sunday (each featuring qualifying and a race), spectacular pit stops and a diverse line-up of cars from eight different manufacturers. The DTM offers plenty to keep you entertained for a long day of racing in the Eifel – or even a whole weekend. Whether it’s the supporting races such as the Porsche Sixt Carrera Cup, the numerous stands and attractions in and around the paddock (included in the admission price), or up-close experiences such as the pit walk with an autograph session or the Track Safari. Day tickets for race days are available from 49 euros, and weekend tickets from 69 euros. Also available: ‘RACE&LUNCH’ options (from 280 euros) and VIP packages from 450 euros. Classic two-wheelers to marvel at: Cologne Circuit | 22–23 August 2026On the fourth weekend in August, the engines certainly don’t fall silent – they simply change a gear. The MSC Porz invites you to the traditional Cologne Circuit on the Grand Prix track. This event has been a fixture since 1991 and will be held this year as an official round of the VFV German Historic Motorcycle Championship. Vintage motorcycle enthusiasts can marvel at historic racing machines from various eras. The absolute crowd favourites are the spectacular starts of the vintage sidecars and the high-speed races of the supersport bikes and superbikes. Day tickets are available from 10 euros and – like all tickets this weekend – include free access to the grandstand and the paddock. 60 GT cars and motorcycling icon Rossi: GT World Challenge | 28 to 30 August 2026 60 supercars on a 5.1-kilometre Grand Prix circuit: there’ll be plenty of traffic on the track during the GT World Challenge powered by AWS’s guest appearance. The world’s largest GT series will deliver thrilling duels during its 3-hour race on Sunday. The field of entrants is huge – and, at the same time, packed with top-class contenders. The starting line-up includes Nordschleife favourites such as the ROWE BMW, the Red Bull-branded Mercedes-AMG from Verstappen Racing and the powerful Ford Mustang from HRT. Experience suggests that the biggest crowds will gather around the number 46 BMW: motorbike legend Valentino Rossi will be behind the wheel – and spectators can be there to watch. Tickets grant free access to the paddock and are available from 10 euros (weekend ticket: 40 euros). A special treat awaits as part of the supporting programme: in the new GT3 Revival Series, rare legendary sports cars such as the BMW Z4 and the Mercedes-Benz SLS will take to the track. The Nürburgring highlights in August 2026: 31 July – 2 August: Nürburgring Drift Cup 1 August: ADAC RAVENOL Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (6-hour race) 7–9 August: 53rd BELMOT Classic Car Grand Prix 14–16 August: DTM 22–23 August: Kölner Kurs 28–30 August: GT World Challenge powered by AWS
15.07.2026
Six weeks after the last event of the Nürburgring Circuit Challenge (RCN), the fifth round of the season is on the schedule. More than 160 participants entered the “Um die Westfalen-Trophy” performance test, which is held on the Nürburgring Nordschleife and organized by MSC Bork e.V. in conjunction with the ADAC. RCN Series Manager Willi Hillebrand: “Let’s hope the weather cooperates. An event with predictable conditions would be nice. The entry list is more than satisfactory for a summer date.” The 15 laps of the performance test on the 20.793-kilometer-long Nordschleife—for a total distance of 311.895 kilometers—are divided into: 1 qualifying lap, 1 confirmation lap, 10 sprint laps, 2 refueling laps with a maximum time of 50 minutes, and 1 cool-down lap. The maximum total driving time for the event is 190 minutes. The current RCN standings leaders, Jens Schneider and Robin Reimer (Engelsbrand / Schömberg, BMW 325i), will compete in the R4 class, which—with 22 entered participants—is once again the largest in the field. Their closest rivals, Sven Markert and Lars Harbeck (both from Berlin, BMW 320i), will compete as usual in the H3 class, which features 11 vehicles in this race. Christian Koch (Wickede, BMW 325i), who is third in the standings, is coming from the H4 class, which has 13 cars this time. There are 16 starters in the R2A class, and 11 teams will be competing in the RS3A class. Among the favorites for the RCN overall victory or a top finish are Michael Luther / Markus Schmickler (Barsbüttel / Bad Neuenahr, BMW M4 GT4), David Vogt (Waldfeucht, Opel Astra TCR), Andreas Schwarz (Obernburg, Cupra Leon TCR) , Alain Dutronc (Switzerland, Porsche Cayman GT4 CS), Sven Markert / Lars Harbeck, Stefan Schmickler (Bad Neuenahr, Porsche Cayman), and Eric Petrich (Wawern, BMW M3). Of particular interest is the driver pairing in the BMW M2 Competition in the RS8A class. Joining Dirk Maier (Albstadt) this time is Yannik Fübrich (Brackenheim), the current leader in the NLS standings and a former NLS champion. Maier: “I’ve wanted to drive with a professional partner for a long time to see what the car is capable of.” Schedule for the “Um die Westfalen-Trophy” Friday, June 17, 20262:30–7:30 p.m. Welcome Center “Scharfer Kopf”3:30–8:00 p.m. Document Check (Historic Paddock)3:30–8:30 p.m. Document Check (Historic Paddock) Saturday, June 18, 20267:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. “Scharfer Kopf” Welcome Center8:15–11:15 a.m. Document Check (Historic Paddock)8:15–11:30 a.m. Technical inspection (Historic Pit Area)10:30 a.m. Briefing for new drivers (Historic Pit Area)11:40 a.m. Drivers’ briefing (Historic Pit Area)12:30 p.m. Start5:00 p.m. Virtual posting of results (www.r-c-n.com)5:30 p.m. Awards ceremony (Historic Paddock) RCN 2026 Calendar March 28: “Bergischer Schmied” Nordschleife + GP Short CircuitApril 25: “Preis der Schlossstadt Brühl” Nordschleife + GP Short CircuitMay 14 “Feste Nürburg” Nürburgring Nordschleife + GP 24-hour variantMay 30 “Nordeifelpokal” Nürburgring NordschleifeJuly 18 “Um die Westfalen-Trophy” Nürburgring NordschleifeSeptember 5: “Rhein-Ruhr” Nürburgring NordschleifeSeptember 26: “Erftquelle Prize” Nordschleife + GP Short CircuitOctober 24: “Schwedenkreuz” 3-hour RCN raceNürburgring Nordschleife + GP Short Circuit
06.07.2026
One of the highlights of the ADAC GT Masters season is just around the corner. The ADAC's GT3 junior series heads to the Nürburgring as part of the Int. Shell ADAC Truck-Grand-Prix, which attracted more than 134,000 spectators over the race weekend last year. Two 60-minute sprint races will be held, on Saturday at 13:45 and Sunday at 14:15. On Sunday, Sport1 will broadcast the second race live on free-to-air television, along with highlights from Saturday's race. All races will also be streamed live on Joyn, ServusTV ON and youtube.com/adacmotorsports. • Numerous guest entrants strengthen the field, including DTM team principal Gottfried Grasser• Home race for Haupt Racing Team, the Holzem twins and Schnitzelalm Racing• Championship battle between BMW and Lamborghini intensifies DTM team principal Grasser and seventh manufacturer join as guest entrantsOne of the most high-profile guest entrants at the Nürburgring will be Gottfried Grasser (47/AUT). The DTM team principal swaps the pit wall for the cockpit, returning to racing after a 13-year absence behind the wheel of a Lamborghini Huracán GT3 Evo 2. He will share the car with his close friend Gerhard Tweraser (37/AUT), who has already contested 36 ADAC GT Masters races, many of them for GRT Grasser Racing Team. The duo will compete in the Pro-Am class. "Our goal in the first race is simply to make it to the finish. In the second race, we'll see where we end up," said Grasser, who has previously contested twelve ADAC GT Masters races. Despite his ambitions, he is keeping expectations realistic. "We haven't even practised a pit stop with the driver change and everything that comes with it. So our first priority is to finish the race safely. But, of course, the competitive spirit is back immediately, and I'll definitely be keeping a close eye on every tenth of a second and every position." The ADAC GT3 junior series also welcomes back Prosport Racing with a Mercedes-AMG GT3. As a result, seven different manufacturers will once again be represented on the Nürburgring grid. The team fields series newcomer Felice Jelmini (31/ITA) alongside familiar face Nico Hantke (22/Hürth). Hantke competed in the championship over the past two seasons, securing one pole position, two victories and fourth place in the overall standings. Racing at his home circuit, he has set himself ambitious goals: "I'm looking forward to racing the Mercedes-AMG GT3 for the first time. It's a new challenge, but I feel very well prepared. Our objective for the weekend is clear: we want to fight at the front and battle for victory." The third guest entrant is SR Motorsport by Schnitzelalm. The team contested the full season last year and has made regular guest appearances since 2024. At their home event, the team's Mercedes-AMG GT3 will be driven by the reigning ADAC GT4 Champions Enrico Förderer (19/Leuterod) and Jay Mo Härtling (23/Sprockhövel). While Förderer makes his GT3 debut, Härtling already has an ADAC GT Masters podium finish to his Name. "We know each other very well as teammates and want to use this opportunity to continue developing in the Mercedes-AMG GT3," said Härtling. Championship battle enters the next roundTim Zimmermann (29/Langenargen) and Leyton Fourie (20/ZAF, both FK Performance Motorsport) lead the standings in their BMW M4 GT3 Evo with a five-point advantage. Last year's runners-up have built strong momentum, claiming two victories and two runner-up finishes in the last four races. "We're trying to build on this momentum and keep it going," explained Fourie. "We know the Nürburgring may not suit us quite as well as the previous circuits, but we'll take each race as it comes and make the most of every opportunity." Zimmermann will also enjoy plenty of support at his home event, with around 300 guests cheering him and the team on from a dedicated hospitality lounge. The closest challengers are Felix Hirsiger (28/CHE) and Finn Zulauf (21/Königstein im Taunus, both Liqui Moly Team Engstler Motorsport) in the Lamborghini Huracán GT3 Evo 2. They have also claimed two victories this season and are determined to regain the championship lead at the Nürburgring. "I'm heading into the weekend feeling positive. The circuit should suit us well. Of course, there are always external factors beyond our control, but I still believe we have everything it takes to win the championship," said Zulauf, who celebrated a podium finish at the Nürburgring last season. Home race for Sandro and Juliano Holzem and Haupt Racing TeamFollowing their breakthrough victory at the Lausitzring, twins Juliano and Sandro Holzem (22) from Polch head into their home event full of confidence. "Our motivation couldn't be higher. Many of our sponsors and family members will be at the track, and there will once again be a fantastic crowd. We're really looking forward to the weekend. We know our package is extremely competitive at the Nürburgring and that we have what it takes to win here. We're currently third in the championship and want to take the next step towards becoming genuine title contenders," said Sandro Holzem, who has many special memories of the Nürburgring. "We used to come to the circuit with our father when we were kids, and I also made my DTM debut here." It is also a home race for Haupt Racing Team. Based in nearby Drees, the squad will field three Ford Mustang GT3 cars and boasts an impressive Nürburgring record, having won three of the last four races in the Eifel while also claiming four podium finishes and three pole positions. With five podium finishes already this season, HRT heads into its home event aiming to secure its first victory of the year.
29.06.2026
Superb championship battles to resume at penultimate event of the 2026 Season. Three down, two to go, and what a race meeting the Michelin 24H SERIES European Series has in store just one week from now when the championship makes a very welcome return to Germany for the maiden Michelin 12H NÜRBURGRING. • Business end of 2026 season arrives with penultimate race just one week away• New Michelin 12H NÜRBURGRING marks fourth event of star five round series• Red-hot GT3 championship led by GetSpeed Team PCX Racing Mercedes-AMG • Class battles all set to deliver equally competitive and unpredictable action• Watch everything LIVE on YouTube next weekend at Creventic Motorsports TV With the outright standings in GT3 finely poised and the majority of the various class battles also red-hot, round four of the five race season – across 3/4/5 July at Nürburgring Grand Prix Circuit – will almost certainly have a vital role to play in the outcome of this year’s spectacular championship.Driver line-ups are mostly confirmed for the 30 car entry and with next weekend marking the first ever visit of the Creventic organised series to the Rhineland-Palatinate track, the form book can be thrown out of the window with so many unknowns. Will the two-part 12-hour race deliver a fourth different winning team and manufacturer of the season?Aiming to stay atop the overall GT3 standings as well as the GT3 PRO-AM championship will be Nürburgring-based Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO squad GetSpeed Team PCX Racing. The No.28 car will be raced next weekend by the trio of Benjamin Paque, Jordan Boisson, Patrick Charlaix and Mikhaël Grenier.HOFOR Racing claimed a magnificent outright win and also GT3-AM class victory in the Michelin 12H PAUL RICARD and has therefore moved to within just six points of fellow Mercedes squad GetSpeed. After missing the previous round, Chantal Prinz returns to team-up with husband Alexander Prinz and also her father Michael Kroll, along with mainstay Torsten Kratz.Three other Mercedes-AMGs will be on the round four grid with GetSpeed’s second car, the Team JR286 entry, featuring Patrick Liddy, Tanner Harvey, Jonathan Hirshberg and Steve Jans. Malaysia’s Viper Niza Racing has confirmed its regular trio of Melvin Moh, Douglas Khoo and Dominic Ang. Third in the overall GT3 standings. Ajith RedAnt Racing, will be determined to continue their very consistent season in the same vein with regular quartet Kobe de Breucker, brothers Yannick and Ayrton Redant and global entertainment icon, Tamil actor Ajith Kumar.Tied for second in GT3 with HOFOR Racing is the lead Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO II of Sainteloc Junior Team, winners of the season-opening Michelin 12H MUGELLO. Pierre Kaffer, Michael Doppelmayr, Elia Erhart, Stephane Tribaudini and Ernst Inderbitzin will race the car at the Nürburgring,Audi squad Continental Racing by Simpson Motorsport has so far named Vasily Vladykin and Paul Scheushner, while Juta Racing’s Audi R8 will be shared by Lutz Obermann, most familiar for his racing in the TCE-TCX class, Andres Latorre, Leonardas Dirzys and an unconfirmed fourth driver. HAAS RT’s father and son Peter and Nicolas Guelinckx will race an as-yet un-named car.Four more manufacturers will be part of the rich GT3 tapestry, with Proton Competition’s Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) EVO to be raced by last season’s Drivers’ Champion Manuel Lauck, Constantin Dressler, Jörg Dreisow and Joel Sturm. New team Up2Race will debut with a similar Porsche which will be driven by Oleksiy Kikireshko, Tim Heinemann and Fabio Grosse.Two ‘Prancing Horses’ will be on the grid, Era Motorsport’s latest edition Ferrari 296 GT3 EVO of Dwight Merriman, Oliver Bryant, Ryan Dalziel and Jake Hill, and the Ferrari 296 GT3 of Pellin Racing who have named Lisa Clark, Kyle Marcelli, Jeff Westphal Massimo Perrina.Bolstering the incredible flavour of GT3 will be the E2P Racing Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 EVO raced by Pablo Burguera, Antonio Sainero and Oliver Campos, plus ARC Bratislava’s Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO piloted by brothers Matej and Adam Konopka alongside their father Miroslav and Zdeno Mikulasko. Battle royal expected in hugely competitive 992 classWith only two races still to go in this year’s campaign, there really is everything to play for in the always entertaining 992 class. Following the first two rounds of the season Mühlner Motorsport were leading comfortably after winning at Mugello and also Spa-Francorchamps, and its No.921 Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992 I) will feature Conrad Tox Leveau, Martin Rump and Joshua Bednarski. Last time out in France though, chief challengers Red Camel-Jordans.nl took an overdue victory and so have closed to within 16 points. At the Nürburgring, the No.909 Porsche will be raced by the usual quartet of Fabian Danz, brothers Luc and Rik Breukers and their father Ivo.Seblajoux Racing’s two cars are just outside the 992 top three, the No.888 will be driven by Sebastien Lajoux himself, Stephane Perrin, Anthony Vince and Louis Perrot, while the line-up for the No.910 features Lionel Amrouche and Enzo Joulié. In the 992-AM class, the No.888 could very well take the series lead.Reigning champions in 992, RPM Racing, have confirmed Tracy Krohn, Niclas Jönsson and Philip Hamprecht, Chazel Technologie Course’s No.920 car will be raced by Jean-Paul Dominici, Antoni de Barn and Jean-Mathieu Leandri and the Van Berlo Motorsport by CP Motorsport entry is set to comprise Marcel van Berlo, his son Glenn and Bart van Helden.Fresh from their 992-AM class win at Circuit Paul Ricard, Steven Gambrell, Igor Sorokin and Jonathan Kearney will aim high in round four for HRT Performance, and the MM Racing car of the Meurrens brothers, Mick, Tom and Steve, will make its second appearance of the season. Mühlner is also set to compete with a second car, No.904, with Rolando Saca and Silvain Pastoris so-far confirmed. Michelin 24H SERIES European Series welcomes a new team to the GTX class, KEO Racing, which will field a Ligier JS2 RS piloted by Adrian Kunzle and Kevin Madsen. In the GT4 class, Bonk Motorsport makes its first outing of the season with Michael Bonk, Martin Kroll and Claudia Hürtgen sharing its BMW M4 GT4 EVO (G82). With a week to go, three cars are expected in TCE-TCX with Germany's asBest Racing. The team's No.102 SEAT Leon Cup Racer has a slim four point lead in the standings and Pia Ohlsson will be joined by Michael Neuhauser. asBest has listed Silas Passos, Alexandre Dante and Cesar Fonseca to drive its Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 CS (982), while the line-up of the squad's Cupra TCR DSG is yet to be confirmed. Following the CR Track Days at the Nürburgring on Wednesday, 1 July, and Thursday, 2 July, free practice will get underway on Friday, 3 July, prior to qualifying – starting at 15.25 local time with three sessions for the 992, GTX, GT4 and TCE-TCX classes. Following those will be three sessions for the GT3 contenders, beginning at 16.35.The opening six hours of the race will start at 12.00 local time on Saturday, 4 July, with the second part of the encounter launching at midday on Sunday, 5 July. Live coverage of qualifying and racing will be streamed at Creventic Motorsports TV on YouTube, and supporting race action will come from Creventic’s Prototype Cup Europe and Radical Cup Europe. Words - Marc Orme , Images - Nico Mombaerts
23.06.2026
Midsummer in the Eifel, time for the next highlights on and off the Nürburgring: In July, the 40th anniversary of the racing giants of the Truck Grand Prix (July 10–12) and the premiere of the 12H Nürburgring on the Grand Prix circuit (July 03–05) await, before cyclists traditionally conquer the Green Hell at Rad am Ring (July 24–26) at the end of the month. In addition, fans can look forward to smoking tires and flying darts in July. These are the Nürburgring highlights in July: International Shell ADAC Truck Grand Prix | July 10 to 12, 2026 Since 1986, a very special event has made the Nürburgring tremble once a year—with truck racing, country atmosphere and countless cheerful and peaceful long-distance drivers. The International Shell ADAC Truck Grand Prix is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. In addition to the thrilling and traditionally contact-heavy position battles of the multi-ton race trucks, a large supporting program awaits, featuring an industrial exhibition, a country and party festival, and many other program points. Country legends such as Tom Astor and Truck Stop are just as much a part of it as the impressive fireworks late on Saturday evening. Day tickets for this cult event start at 32.00 euros. Those who want to experience the Truck Grand Prix from its exclusive side can opt for VIP tickets in the Coca-Cola business°lounge starting at 360.00 euros. MICHELIN 12H Nürburgring & DLMM | July 03 to 05, 2026 For the first time, the well-known GT and touring car series will stop at the Nürburgring. The series also runs on numerous racetracks across Europe and in the Emirates. At the premiere of the “Michelin 12H Nürburgring,” an exciting “split race” will take place on the 5.148-kilometer Grand Prix circuit. This means: the twelve-hour race is divided into two 6-hour sections on Saturday and Sunday. The starting field ranges from GT3 and GT4 cars to touring cars from premium brands such as Audi, Porsche, Mercedes-AMG, Lamborghini, and Ferrari. Tickets are available from 10.00 euros. VIP offers including box seats and exclusive catering can be booked from 320.00 euros. Parallel to the roar of the engines on the Grand Prix circuit, darts will be flying on the ring°boulevard on the first July weekend. The “German League Team Championships (DLMM)” will be held at the Nürburgring for the third time, transforming the 3,500-square-meter indoor area into a madhouse of electronic darts. As the largest e-darts tournament in Europe, the event is breaking records: more than 500 teams and 4,000 active players will compete on over 250 machines simultaneously for the coveted championship titles. A great spectacle—even for outsiders. In this sense: “Onehundredandeighty!“. Rad am Ring | July 24 to 26, 2026 After the cycling highlight set a record last year with 11,948 participants, “Rad am Ring” is once again set in 2026 to firmly place the Green Hell in the hands of cyclists. The range of disciplines leaves nothing to be desired: from the legendary 24-hour race to amateur races, touring rides, the German Cycling Bundesliga, and a challenging 22-kilometer time trial, to the Kids Race and the dusty gravel race—everything is on offer. The sporting weekend is complemented by a large expo in the Grand Prix paddock, offering everything related to two-wheel mobility. Nürburgring Drift Cup | July 31 to August 02, 2026 At the turn of the month from July to August, the Nürburgring Drift Cup invites participants to the next round. Europe’s elite drifters will take on the demanding track as well as the critical eyes of the judges. After free practice on Friday and qualifying on Saturday, the weekend culminates in the spectacular “twin battles” on Sunday. When two cars with up to 1,000 hp fly through the corners bumper to bumper in direct duels, nuances decide whether they advance or face an early exit. Day tickets are available from 25.00 euros. The Nürburgring highlights in July 2026: July 03 – 05: MICHELIN 12H Nürburgring July 03 – 05: DLMM (ring°boulevard) July 10 – 12: Int. Shell ADAC Truck Grand Prix July 18: RCN (Nordschleife) July 24 – 26: Rad am Ring July 31 – August 02: Nürburgring Drift Cup
12.06.2026
The Abt team, which finished second in the 2026 ADAC RAVENOL 24 Hours of Nürburgring, has been retroactively disqualified due to a technical violation. This decision was made by the race stewards at a meeting on June 12, 2026. The following cars move up in the standings, so that behind the winning Mercedes-AMG Team RAVENOL with Maro Engel / Luca Stolz / Fabian Schiller / Maxime Martin (Mercedes-AMG GT3), the Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 EVO from Walkenhorst Motorsport with Christian Krognes / Mattia Drudi / Nicki Thiim now follows. New in 3rd place: Rowe Racing with Daniel Harper / Max Hesse / Sheldon van der Linde / Dries Vanthoor (BMW M4 GT3 EVO). During a technical post-race inspection, the #84 Lamborghini (driven by Luca Engstler / Mirko Bortolotti / Patric Niederhauser) was found to have excessive power output. This was outside the tolerance range prescribed by the Balance of Performance (BoP). In total, six GT3 vehicles in the SP9 class were inspected in the days following the race as part of a routine post-race inspection. The inspections of the other five vehicles—from Aston Martin, BMW, Ford, Mercedes-AMG, and Porsche—including tests on a dynamometer to measure power output, revealed no issues. Since the Abt team has decided not to appeal, the results of the 54th edition of the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring are now final and can be viewed at www.24h-rennen.de.
11.06.2026
Less than a week removed from the halfway point of the Michelin 24H SERIES European Series at Paul Ricard in France, drivers and teams are already making early preparations for the penultimate race of the 2026 season – the hotly anticipated Michelin 12H NÜRBURGRING. Round four of the championship across the weekend 3/4/5 July will not only mark the welcome return of the Creventic organised category to Germany for the first time since 2022, the event will actually be the maiden visit of the Michelin 24H SERIES to the renowned Nürburgring GP track. Leading the headline GT3 class going into round four is local squad GetSpeed Team PCX Racing, the Mercedes-AMG outfit holding a six-point advantage at the top of the table. It will also enter the sister GetSpeed Team JR286 car which is second in the GT3-AM class title battle. The upcoming event couldn’t be any more of a ‘home’ race meeting for GetSpeed if it tried, the team headquarters are actually situated at the Nürburgring itself – so there will be plentiful support for the current championship leaders. HOFOR Racing is guaranteed to still be in celebratory mood after a fantastic overall race victory last time out at Circuit Paul Ricard, and the Mercedes-AMG team will go into round four with the lead of the GT3-AM class. Also set to be on the grid at the Nürburgring with Mercedes-AMG entries will be category stalwarts Ajith RedAnt Racing and Viper Niza Racing – the former is second in the GT3 PRO-AM standings to GetSpeed Team PCX, and fourth in the outright GT3 battle. More local interest in GT3 comes courtesy of the sole Porsche 911 GT3 R (992) EVO from Germany’s Proton Competition, the Baden-Württemberg squad is presently third in the PRO-AM standings and fifth in the overall GT3 championship. Four Audi R8 LMS GT3 EVO II cars are listed for the first ever Michelin 12H NÜRBURGRING, one example each from Sainteloc Junior Team – winners of the season-opening Michelin 12H MUGELLO – HAAS RT, Continental Racing by Simpson Motorsport and Juta Racing. Era Motorsport is confirmed with its Ferrari 296 GT3 EVO, which debuted last time out, and fellow Ferrari squad Pellin Racing makes a welcome return having missed the visit to Paul Ricard. Pellin’s variant is the Ferrari 296 GT3. Completing the GT3 entry will be E2P Racing with its Aston Martin Vantage AMR GT3 EVO and the returning Lamborghini Huracán GT3 EVO of ARC Bratislava. Class battles ready to resume in 992, GT4 and expanded TCE-TCXFollowing victory for the Red Camel-Jordans.nl Porsche 911 GT3 Cup (992 I) in round three, the gap at the top of the 992 championship to leaders Mühlner Motorsport – victors at Mugello and Spa – has closed to 16 points with two events to go. Mühlner has also entered a second Porsche for the trip to the Nürburgring. Germany’s RPM Racing and HRT Performance are confirmed in 992, the latter currently entering two Porsches, while the Seblajoux Racing squad will also enter twin cars. Also in action will be Chazel Technologie Course, MM Racing and Van Berlo Motorsport by CP Motorsport. Two cars are presently listed in GT4, Michelin 12H PAUL RICARD class winners Circuit Toys bring their distinctive Toyota GR Supra GT4 EVO2 and will be challenged by German squad Bonk Motorsport with its BMW M4 GT4 EVO (G82) making its first appearance of the season. TCE-TCX expands to six cars for round four, with the class leading asBest Racing SEAT Leon Cup Racer – winner at Mugello and Paul Ricard – entered alongside the team’s Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 CS (982) and Cupra TCR DSG, making it a three-car effort for asBest Racing. Chief championship rivals Not Only Motorsport, victors at Spa, will be aiming to overturn asBest’s slim four point lead with its potent Ligier JS2 R. Making only its second appearance of the European Series season will be the trusty BMW M3 (E46) of J-Mec Engineering, and Sharky Racing will make an overdue and very welcome return to TCE-TCX with an Audi RS3 LMS TCR. After CR Track Days on Wednesday, 1 July, and Thursday, 2 July, free practice and qualifying will follow at the Nürburgring on Friday, 3 July – the 992, GT4 and TCE-TCX classes will participate in three qualifying sessions, with three additional sessions for GT3 only. Part one of the race is set to begin at 12.00 local time on Saturday, 4 July, with part two beginning at 12.00 on Sunday, 5 July. In addition to the action from the Michelin 12H NÜRBURGRING, there will also be support races from the Creventic organised Prototype Cup Europe and Radical Cup Europe. Creventic Motorsports TV will carry live coverage on YouTube, with streaming and live Timing.
