Valentino Rossi in talks to emulate Max Verstappen at iconic race

Nine-time MotoGP world champion Valentino Rossi is actively seeking to secure his Nordschleife permit, with a view to competing in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.

Rossi and his management are searching for an available slot in one of the remaining NLS rounds this year, meaning he must satisfy the barriers to entry in the coming weeks, with the key condition being that he must race a BMW.

From a marketing perspective, the new M2 Racing would represent an ideal choice for the Munich manufacturer, providing a promotional platform for its entry-level model.

Once the permit is obtained, Rossi would be eligible to contest the 2027 Nürburgring 24 Hours in a GT3 car, provided he satisfies all other entry requirements. The permit, formally known as the DPN (DMSB Permit Nordschleife), has historically been the principal obstacle preventing the Italian icon from taking part in the race.

The rules surrounding the permit were simplified last winter, and Rossi responded warmly to the changes. Speaking on the sidelines of the Spa 24 Hours, he made clear that the Eifel classic had moved firmly into his sights.

"Yes, because it seems now you can get the permit in one weekend," he said, as reported by Motorsport.com. "We are talking with BMW to organise everything. The 24 Hours of the Nürburgring is absolutely on my bucket list. I hope we can make it happen with BMW."

Scheduling remains a complication. Rossi is committed to a full campaign in the GT World Challenge Europe in 2026, covering both the Sprint and Endurance Cups.

The September NLS double-header, featuring the Reinoldus Endurance Race and the Barbarossa Prize, represents the most attractive opportunity, offering a safety net should weather or mechanical misfortune intervene on the notoriously unpredictable Nordschleife.

However, that same weekend clashes with the Suzuka 1000km, a race Rossi is highly motivated to enter as part of the Intercontinental GT Challenge.

If the Suzuka question forces his hand, the NLS10 season finale on 10 October remains a viable fallback, though it carries the risk of difficult autumn conditions.

Rossi is now the second global superstar to target the Nürburgring classic, following Max Verstappen's high-profile appearance at the event in May 2026.

Verstappen has indicated an interest in returning to the race in future, though his participation will always be subject to the Formula 1 calendar.