Unprecedented Surge: Nurburgring 24 Hours Set to Host Record 161 Cars in 2026!
In an exhilarating announcement that has sent shockwaves through the motorsport community, the ADAC Nordrhein has revealed the entry list for the highly anticipated 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours, showcasing an astonishing 161 cars! This monumental figure marks the largest entry since 2014, and the excitement is palpable as fans and teams alike prepare for what promises to be an unforgettable race at the notorious “Green Hell.”
Among the elite drivers gracing this year's grid is none other than Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen, adding a colossal star power to an already impressive lineup. The SP9 class, in particular, has experienced a remarkable boost, now featuring a staggering 41 competitors. This growth comes on the heels of a strategic decision to expand the maximum entries after a period of decline that saw participation plummet to a mere 97 cars during the COVID-affected 2020 race.
Race organizers have taken bold steps to accommodate this surge in interest by increasing the cap on entries from 150 to an unprecedented 161. Walter Hornung, the race director, expressed his elation, stating, “We are delighted with the extraordinary response to the 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours. The fact that we can bring this large and high-calibre field to the start is only possible because so many teams have cooperated. I would like to express my sincere thanks for that.” He emphasized the unique camaraderie within the endurance racing community at Nordschleife, where both world-class stars and amateur drivers unite in a shared passion for this iconic event.
The impressive roster comprises a variety of classes, promising thrilling battles on the track. The breakdown of entries includes:
– SP9: 41 entries – Cup 3: 17 entries – SP10: 13 entries – Cup 2, BMW M240i: 11 entries – VT2 – RWD: 9 entries – SP3T: 7 entries – SP-X, SP4T, VT2 – FWD, V5, V6: 5 entries each – TCR, BMW 325i, BMW M2 Racing: 4 entries – SP7, SP2T, AT (2&3): 3 entries – AT1: 2 entries – SP-PRO, SP8T, SP4, SP3: 1 entry each
Brand participation is equally impressive, with major automotive players stepping up to the challenge:
– Porsche: 50 entries – BMW: 43 entries – Mercedes-AMG: 13 entries – Audi, VW: 11 entries – Toyota: 7 entries – Aston Martin: 6 entries – Hyundai: 4 entries – HWA, Ford, Lamborghini: 3 entries each – McLaren: 2 entries – KTM, Ferrari, Subaru, Opel, Dacia: 1 entry each
The thrill of Verstappen’s participation has ignited ticket sales to unprecedented levels, with ADAC Nordrhein issuing a crucial alert to fans: purchasing tickets on race day may become impossible due to anticipated sell-outs! Additionally, logistical warnings have been issued regarding potential traffic delays for those traveling to the event, particularly for fans aiming to secure camping spots.
As anticipation builds for this monumental race, one thing is clear: the 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours is shaping up to be an exhilarating spectacle of speed, strategy, and sheer passion. Don’t miss your chance to witness history in the making!
