The event begins with qualifying on 14-15 May before the iconic endurance race runs from 16-17 May.
Driving for Mercedes-AMG Team Verstappen Racing, Verstappen will share a Mercedes-AMG GT3 operated alongside Winward Racing with Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon and Dani Juncadella.
Momentum has steadily built ahead of the event after the team impressed during April’s qualifying weekend, when its Mercedes-AMG GT3 became the first car to dip below the nine-minute barrier in qualifying trim.
Auer later secured fifth in the timed lap session, while Verstappen led the subsequent four-hour race for the opening 90 minutes before a splitter problem dropped the car down the order.
The Dutchman’s preparation has been extensive. Last month, before the Japanese Grand Prix, Verstappen sampled a GT500 machine at Fuji Speedway in heavy rain for the first time and immediately impressed by beating experienced Super GT driver Atsushi Miyake’s benchmark on only his second flying lap. Verstappen posted a 1:42.290 compared to Miyake’s 1:44.075.
In 2025, Verstappen earned his DMSB Permit Nordschleife and later claimed victory in round nine of the NLS driving a Ferrari 296 GT3. He also recently completed another Nordschleife session, with footage released through the Red Bull Content Pool.
“Success is winning. That’s why we’re here. I know it’s not going to be easy, but that’s the target for everyone,” said Verstappen.
“It’s probably going to be the best feeling,” he said of racing through the night.
“You’re by yourself, pushing in the night. The car is normally fastest in the night, so I’m looking forward to it.”
