Helmut Marko makes Max Verstappen decision after special Nurburgring outing

Helmut Marko has confirmed that Max Verstappen will be allowed to compete in the Nurburgring 24 Hours after his special test outing. 

The Red Bull driver competed in a Porsche Cayman last weekend after the Italian GP to earn a licence to compete at the Nordschleife, including in the showpiece 24-hour endurance race.

Verstappen earned his licence after initial confusion, with Red Bull motorsport advisor Marko paving the way for the Dutchman to now compete in next year's race, taking place between the Miami and Canadian GPs in May. 

"Yes," Marko told Sport.De when asked if Verstappen could compete in the 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours.

"I think it's great that a Formula 1 driver, who has many obligations in addition to the races - simulator, marketing and PR dates - takes the time for such a thing with a huge enthusiasm."

Marko could not resist a dig at the regulations which meant Verstappen was forced to obtain a licence for the track, even as a four-time F1 champion.

"This German procedure, which a four-time world champion has to prove that he can drive around the ring with a 240bhp Porsche, is unique," he said.

"But he took it all on himself, although he must have already shot 1000 laps in the simulator around the Nürburgring. So he didn't come unprepared."

However, as for the more famous Le Mans 24 Hours, Marko put a block on Verstappen taking part in the twice-around-the-clock French endurance classic. 

"Le Mans is not in the program. Le Mans is a different story," he said.

"The speed differences and the different categories are even bigger. For the time being, long distance is only the Nurburgring."