Max Verstappen facing serious jeopardy at Nurburgring as wish to be granted

The legendary Nordschleife hosts the qualifiers for the 24 Hours of Nurburgring this weekend (18–19 April), with Max Verstappen among the headline names as he continues preparations for next month's main event.

Conditions across the Eifel region look changeable, with a mix of sunshine, cloud and scattered showers likely to play a role across both days of running.

Saturday is expected to begin on a dry and bright note, with sunny spells developing through the morning — ideal conditions for the opening qualifying session.

However, as the day progresses, cloud will build, bringing the risk of scattered, locally heavy showers during the afternoon.

These showers are expected to be hit-and-miss, meaning parts of the circuit — which stretches over 20 kilometres — could remain dry while others see brief rainfall.

Overall, dry running should dominate, with only a small chance of interruptions during the first race. Temperatures are forecast to peak at around 14°C, accompanied by a light westerly breeze.

Forecast confidence decreases into Sunday, but current indications suggest a higher probability of showers moving in from the west. Timing remains uncertain, which could prove crucial for teams fine-tuning their cars and strategies.

Sunny intervals are still expected between showers, but the likelihood of wet-weather running is increased compared to Saturday. Once again, temperatures should reach around 14°C, with light westerly winds persisting.

The variable conditions could prove particularly intriguing for Verstappen, who shares a Verstappen Racing Mercedes GT3 with Lucas Auer this weekend.

The Dutchman has openly welcomed the prospect of rain at the Nordschleife — a challenge that may well materialise given Sunday’s forecast — as it will best prepare him for the rigours of the main race.

With the Qualifiers serving as the final major preparation ahead of May's 24-hour race, teams will be watching the skies closely. Changeable Eifel weather is a hallmark of the Nordschleife — and this weekend looks set to deliver exactly that.