The ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring is already taking shape, with organizers publishing the full schedule for the endurance racing highlight. The move, announced earlier this week, allows teams, participants, and fans to begin detailed planning for the iconic event. The program will encompass a wide range of motorsport disciplines, from historic endurance racing to the cutting-edge GT3 cars that define the modern 24-hour race.
Beyond the headline 24-hour race itself, the event will feature the RCN (Rundstrecken-Challenge Nürburgring), adding another layer of competition and spectacle. The schedule also includes the DHLM Historic Endurance, offering a nostalgic look at the evolution of endurance racing at the Nürburgring.
The preparation for the 2026 race has already seen some significant adjustments to accommodate the ambitions of Formula 1 star Max Verstappen. The Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) has altered its race date, moving it forward a week from its original slot. This adjustment was made specifically to allow Verstappen to participate in an NLS endurance race without clashing with the Japanese Grand Prix, a personal prerequisite he reportedly set for competing in the 24-hour classic.
According to reports, Mercedes-Benz Chairman Ola Kallenius and motorsport boss Toto Wolff actively campaigned for this calendar change to facilitate Verstappen’s potential start in a Mercedes-AMG GT3. The NLS Director, Mike Jager, explained the decision as a “strategic calendar adjustment” undertaken after intensive discussions with stakeholders, prioritizing the interests of motorsport as a whole. Jager stated, “We want to continue to build on the worldwide recognition that the NLS gained last year through Max Verstappen’s participation, to the benefit of all teams and participants.”
The Nürburgring’s 2026 calendar is remarkably full, boasting over 50 events encompassing motorsport, entertainment, cycling, and cultural festivals. The season kicks off in January and extends through late October, solidifying the Nürburgring’s position as a premier multi-purpose motorsport venue. Other key motorsport events include the ADAC Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie races on and , the ADAC 24h Nürburgring Qualifiers & DHLM Historic Endurance from to , and the DMV Goodyear Racing Days from to .
The calendar also features the DTM (German Touring Car Masters) from to , the GT World Challenge powered by AWS from to , and the IDM (Motorcycle German Championship) from to . The ADAC 1000km-Rennen is scheduled for and , while the season will conclude with the ADAC RGB Saisonfinale on .
The shift in the NLS calendar underscores the growing appeal of the Nürburgring 24 Hours, not just to established endurance racers, but also to drivers from other disciplines like Formula 1. Verstappen’s potential participation has clearly elevated the event’s profile, prompting organizers to prioritize accommodating his schedule. This willingness to adapt demonstrates the Nürburgring’s commitment to attracting top talent and expanding its global audience.
The RCN season opener also involved collaboration between the RCN and the circuit operator, highlighting the coordinated effort to deliver a comprehensive and compelling motorsport calendar. The early publication of the 2026 schedule, before the end of 2025, is a deliberate move to allow all stakeholders – teams, fans, and participants – ample time to prepare for the year ahead.
The 2026 season promises a diverse range of racing action, from the high-octane thrills of GT3 competition to the historical charm of classic endurance racing. With over 50 events planned, the Nürburgring is poised to remain a central hub for motorsport enthusiasts throughout the year. The focus now shifts to the teams and drivers as they finalize their preparations for what promises to be a landmark season.