Max Verstappen will contest this weekend’s 24 Hours of Nürburgring in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo, despite Ford publicly preferring he drive a Mustang GT3 in endurance events.

Ford’s global racing director, Mark Rushbrook, reiterated manufacturer alignment, saying Ford wants its drivers in Ford cars, while acknowledging Verstappen’s passion and right to choose suitable programs.

Verstappen makes his Nürburgring debut with Winward Racing. The move contrasts his Formula 1 context, where Red Bull’s power unit is developed through a partnership with Ford.

Representing different manufacturers across series is not new for Verstappen, who last year raced a Ferrari GT3 while competing in F1 with Ford-linked power.

Sportscar365 reports efforts to place him in a Mustang GT3 Evo for the Nürburgring and GT World Challenge Europe with his Verstappen Racing operation.

Rushbrook also praised Verstappen’s breadth, from sim racing to real racing, arguing this versatility improves performance and adds value across Ford’s wider motorsport programs.

While accepting his current schedule, Ford continues to encourage future sports-car outings in its machinery. Talks with Verstappen on potential projects have run for more than three years.

That timeline aligns with Ford’s planned Hypercar program, expected next year, creating a natural decision point once calendars, development priorities, and contractual obligations converge.

The Nürburgring 24 Hours provides a severe, multi-class benchmark. Competing in Mercedes equipment should furnish valuable endurance mileage while Ford evaluates future opportunities.

There is no regulatory conflict here. Manufacturer identity is a commercial consideration, not a sporting restriction, allowing Verstappen to balance F1 commitments with selective GT3 outings.

This weekend’s performance will indicate his endurance readiness and inform brand decisions. Ford still hopes the pathway leads to a Mustang seat when programs and timing align.

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Daniel Miller

Daniel Miller reports on Formula 1 Grand Prix weekends with race-day analysis, team-radio highlights, and point-standings updates. He explains power-unit upgrades, aerodynamic developments, and driver rivalries in straightforward, SEO-friendly language for a global F1 audience.