Thrills and goosebumps at the Nürburgring: this year's Race4Friends was once again a unique day for 890 people with mental or physical disabilities. Speedy taxi laps conjured up pure joy on their faces. Thanks to the voluntary commitment of organizers, helpers and photographers, drivers with their racing cars and the Nürburgring, the event was once again an extraordinary experience with unforgettable memories for everyone involved.

From the moment you got into the car to the home stretch, the emotions were tangible. Even the cool November weather, with light rain and fog, could not stop the participants and volunteer drivers from transforming the heart of the Nürburgring into a place full of joy. Accompanied by a well-rehearsed team, the first laps on the Grand Prix circuit started in the early morning hours. By the evening, the stream of 100 racing cars, which were parked bumper to bumper in the pit lane, repeatedly ready to go for their passengers, did not stop.

On and off the race track, many #HeartRace moments were created thanks to the support of 120 drivers, 200 helpers and 300 companions. In the pits, everything from sandwiches to a hot lunch was available to satisfy every appetite. A DJ provided the background music and the police dog unit thrilled visitors with demonstrations of their skills. Also in the thick of the action: the Nürburgring mascot Legend, who was available for countless souvenir photos.
“Our event thrives on the joy and enthusiasm we give to people,” emphasizes Christoph Brune, head of organization and 1st chairman of Race4Friends e.V. ‘That is our motivation and at the same time our greatest reward.’ Since 2010, the association has been organizing the event every year, offering people with disabilities unique motorsport experiences. This is made possible by the support of numerous volunteers and partners.

This year, the Nürburgring once again provided the entire infrastructure, including the race track and pit facilities, as well as the track security and staff, free of charge. The “Beast of the Green Hell”, the Mercedes-AMG GT R PRO of the Nürburgring Driving Academy, was also used as a fast taxi. “We are proud to have supported this special event in so many ways for years,” explains Nürburgring Managing Director Christian Stephani. ”The joy that can be felt among everyone involved shows how much positive impact can be achieved together. That cannot be bought with any currency in the world. It's unique.”