Overview
- Mercedes-AMG has formally asked the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie to move its season opener back one week to March 21 to create a slot for Max Verstappen to contest a required race between the China and Japan F1 grands prix.
- Mike Jäger confirms the request has been received and says no decision has been taken as organizers weigh conflicts with other championships and logistics.
- Reports indicate Mercedes-Benz CEO Ola Källenius and motorsport boss Toto Wolff are backing the push to reschedule the opener.
- Verstappen has clearance from Mercedes, Red Bull Racing and Red Bull’s parent company, and he turned private laps in an AMG GT3 at Portimão this week.
- Winward Racing has confirmed a factory-backed Nürburgring 24 Hours effort, and reporting points to a possible second Mercedes entry for Verstappen with likely co-drivers Jules Gounon, Dani Juncadella and Lucas Auer.