The 2026 running of the Nurburgring 24 Hours race once again underlined its reputation as one of motorsport’s toughest challenges, with Verstappen’s participation at the Nordschleife adding extra spotlight to the race.
For Russell, the appeal of stepping outside Formula 1 is clear, even if his current focus remains firmly on chasing success in Formula 1.
“Yeah, definitely one day,” Russell said when asked about competing in the event. He added that watching Verstappen compete over the weekend was “pretty cool to see”, while also highlighting his long-standing interest in endurance racing events such as Bathurst and the Nürburgring.
He described the 24-hour format as “brutal”, pointing to the physical and mental demands placed on drivers who spend an entire day racing through changing conditions and night stints.
Verstappen’s growing involvement in endurance and sim racing has become a talking point in the paddock, with the Red Bull driver already widely regarded as one of the most complete talents in modern motorsport. Russell acknowledged that Verstappen’s position in the sport allows him more freedom to explore other disciplines.
“All of us are in a slightly different position to Max,” Russell explained. “He’s in a more luxurious position to do what he enjoys, and that’s great for him. And he did a great job.”
Russell, meanwhile, remains firmly focused on his own F1 campaign and the pursuit of a first world title, limiting his opportunities to explore events outside the grand prix calendar.
Attention now turns back to the next round of the season, the Monaco Grand Prix, taking place from June 5 to June 7 on the iconic streets of Monte Carlo, where precision and qualifying performance are expected to be crucial once again.
