Nine-time MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi is actively pursuing a Nordschleife permit, with the aim of competing in the Nürburgring 24 Hours. This development follows Max Verstappen’s debut at the endurance event earlier this year.
Rossi, a current BMW GT driver, is in discussions with BMW to facilitate his participation. He is targeting the 2027 edition of the Nürburgring 24 Hours, according to recent statements.
The process for obtaining the DMSB Permit Nordschleife (DPN) has been streamlined. Rules were relaxed last winter, making it possible to acquire the necessary Level A permit in a single weekend.
Rossi is currently committed to a full campaign in the GT World Challenge Europe for 2026. This includes participation in both the Sprint and Endurance Cups.
Scheduling conflicts pose a challenge for Rossi’s permit acquisition this year. The September NLS double-header, a potential opportunity, clashes with the Suzuka 1000km, a race Rossi is keen to enter.
Max Verstappen made his debut at the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring in May 2026. He competed with Verstappen Racing in a Mercedes-AMG GT3.
Verstappen’s team led the race by over half a minute on Sunday morning. However, a driveshaft problem forced their retirement with approximately three hours remaining.
The four-time Formula 1 world champion had previously secured his DMSB Permit Nordschleife in 2025. He also won his first GT3 race during an NLS round that year.
Verstappen has indicated an interest in returning to the Nürburgring 24 Hours in the future. His participation would be subject to his demanding Formula 1 calendar.
The potential for both motorsport figures to compete in the same Nürburgring 24 Hours event remains a future prospect. Rossi’s current focus is on securing his permit for the 2027 race.
