Max Verstappen sends defiant message ahead of 24 Hours debut

Max Verstappen has insisted he feels fully prepared for his maiden appearance in the 24 Hours of Nurburgring, whilst underlining his desire to compete in more endurance events in the future.

The four-time F1 drivers' champion will tackle the legendary Nordschleife across an entire day, after building up experience at the daunting German circuit in GT machinery over recent months.

Despite his confidence ahead of the race, Verstappen acknowledged that Balance of Performance regulations could prove decisive over the course of the 24-hour event.

"We have prepared as well as possible, but at the end of the day, of course, it also depends on the BoP [Balance of Performance], where we're going to be at," Verstappen told media, including RacingNews365.

"I think from the driver's side, we're good, the team is strong. We just need to make sure that the car stays in one piece, especially for the 24-hour race.|

Balance of Performance, commonly referred to as BoP, is designed to equalise performance between different GT manufacturers in endurance racing.

Officials can alter parameters such as engine output, ballast weight and ride height in an attempt to ensure close competition across the field.

Verstappen's growing interest in endurance racing comes amid recent confirmation from Ford that talks have taken place regarding a potential future entry into the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

The Red Bull driver admitted he would already be competing in additional endurance races if the Formula 1 calendar allowed greater flexibility.

"And then the rest, I want to do more, of course, but it also depends a bit on the [F1] calendar," the 71-time grand prix winner added.

"For example, if there was a free weekend for the 24 hours of Spa, I would have done that already this year as well. So it's just whatever allows me to race; I would love to do so."