Full Breakdown
Record-Breaking Entry List for the 2026 ADAC Ravenol 24h Nürburgring
4/29/2026, 8:47:26 PM
Relaxed Entry Cap Enables Largest Grid Since 2014
The ADAC Ravenol 24h Nürburgring organizers announced a temporary suspension of the 150-car entry limit, allowing a 161-car grid for the 2026 edition. The decision follows a statement that “many racing teams are limiting their space requirements, thereby making room for their competitors and colleagues.” This adjustment produces the biggest field since the 165-car lineup in 2014.
Notable Teams and Drivers
- Max Verstappen – The Formula 1 champion makes his Nürburgring debut in a Mercedes-AMG entered under the Verstappen Racing banner, alongside Lucas Auer, Jules Gounon and Daniel Juncadella.
- Mercedes-AMG – Provides six GT3 entries, four of which compete in the SP9 PRO class with PROsport Racing, KCMG and Team Ravenol.
- Porsche – Supplies 12 cars across SP9 PRO, PRO-AM and AM categories, entered by Dunlop Motorsport, Falken Motorsport, Lionspeed GP, Dinamic GT and Manthey.
- Other manufacturers – Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini and McLaren each field GT3 entries, bringing the total to nine GT3 marques.
- Rowe Racing – Returns to defend its 2025 victory with two BMW M4 GT3s.
- Special entries – BMW’s factory-entered M3 Touring GT3 in SP-X PRO, three HWA Evo R restomods, a Reiter Engineering KTM X-Bow GTX, and the fan-favorite Ollis Garage Dacia Logan in SP-3T.
Numbers at a Glance
- Total cars: 161 (largest field since 2014)
- GT3 (SP9) cars: 41, of which 27 contest IGTC points
- GT4 (SP10) cars: 32
- Other categories: 11 Cup 2, 17 Cup 3, 10 TCR, plus assorted SP-X, SP-8T and AT2 entries
Why the Expanded Grid Matters
The enlarged entry list underscores the Nürburgring’s appeal across the endurance-racing spectrum, from world-class stars to amateur participants. A broader field increases manufacturer exposure, diversifies competition, and enhances spectator interest both on-site and via broadcast. The inclusion of a high-profile driver such as Verstappen is expected to attract new audiences to the event.
Official Statements from Race Director
Race director Walter Hornung highlighted the “extraordinary response” to the 2026 race and praised the collaborative effort among teams that made the large, high-calibre field possible. He emphasized that the event reflects the “special spirit of the endurance racing community at the Nordschleife,” where participants of all levels unite for a shared challenge.
Criticism & Opposition
The source material does not contain any reported criticism or dissenting viewpoints regarding the entry-cap relaxation or the composition of the grid.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We are delighted with the extraordinary response to the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring 2026.” — Walter Hornung, Race Director
- “The fact that we can bring this large and high-calibre field to the start is only possible because so many teams have cooperated.” — Walter Hornung, Race Director
- “I would like to express my sincere thanks for that.” — Walter Hornung, Race Director
- “I would like to express my sincere thanks for that. This demonstrates the special spirit of the endurance racing community at the Nordschleife: from world-class stars to amateur drivers, everyone is pulling together because everyone wants to be part of this special race.” — Walter Hornung, Race Director
What’s Next
The 2026 ADAC Ravenol 24h Nürburgring is scheduled for 14–17 May. Teams will complete final preparations during the weeks leading up to the start, and media coverage is expected to intensify as the event approaches.
