Max Verstappen Disqualified from Nürburgring GT3 Race

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Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 champion, was disqualified from a recent GT3 race at the Nürburgring after his team used one too many sets of tires during the four-hour event. Verstappen had dominated the race, taking pole position and winning by over a minute, before the error was discovered and the victory handed to the second-place BMW team.

Why it matters

Verstappen's disqualification highlights the complex rules and regulations surrounding endurance racing, especially at challenging circuits like the Nürburgring Nordschleife. While the mistake was unintentional, it underscores the need for even top-level teams to meticulously follow the rules to avoid costly penalties.

The details

Verstappen, driving a Red Bull-sponsored Mercedes-AMG GT3 for Winward Racing, had a strong start to the race, briefly battling with Audi driver Christopher Haase before taking the lead. However, the team was found to have used seven sets of tires instead of the permitted six, resulting in Verstappen's disqualification and the victory being awarded to the second-place BMW M4 GT3 EVO team.

• Verstappen took pole position in dry conditions with a lap time of 7:51.751.
• The four-hour NLS2 race took place on Saturday.
• After the race, the team's tire usage error was discovered, leading to Verstappen's disqualification.

What’s next

Verstappen and the Winward Racing team are expected to return to the Nürburgring in three weeks for another four-hour NLS race on April 11, as they prepare for the 24-hour event on May 14-17.