A top-class starting grid is taking shape for the 24h Qualifiers (17–19 April). With around a week to go before the official entry deadline on 12 April, some 120 teams have already submitted their entries. The GT3 teams in particular are keen to make the most of this final opportunity to fine-tune their cars for the Nordschleife’s highlight of the season, the 24h Nürburgring (14–17 May).
A total of 37 teams in the GT3 category have already announced their participation. One 24-hour rookie in particular is preparing intensively: Max Verstappen. The four-time Formula 1 world champion is using the short-notice break in the Grand Prix calendar to complete further laps of the Nordschleife in the Mercedes-AMG GT3 during the Qualifiers. He faces what is likely to be the toughest competition in years: with Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Ferrari, Ford, Lamborghini, McLaren, Porsche and, of course, further Mercedes-AMG cars, a total of nine brands are represented in the top class alone, all vying for victory.
Eleven Porsche 911 GT3 Rs on the grid
Porsche dominates the GT3 starting grid with a fleet of eleven (!) 911 GT3 Rs. The participation of the BMW teams is also likely to be a particular focus of attention, as alongside the BMW M4 GT3 EVO, which also competes in the DTM, the legendary Z4 EVO returns to the Nordschleife, whilst the brand-new BMW M3 Touring 24h (yes, an station wagon!) competes in the SP-X class, but is based on the largely identical GT3 car.
A colourful starting grid ranging from the Dacia Logan to the HWA EVO R
But in the Qualifiers – just as at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring four weeks later – the fans’ focus is not solely on the front of the field. Drivers will battle for victory across a total of 20 classes: from the near-production VW Golf GTI and the Hyundai Elantra N in TCR specification to the GT4 Cayman and the HWA EVO R, making its debut at the 24h. Not to be forgotten: the Dacia Logan, which is not only a fan favourite but has also been prepared for the annual adventure at the 24h Nürburgring for years, drawing on the team’s wealth of technical experience and proven Nordschleife drivers.
Anyone wishing to secure their ticket for the 24h Qualifiers weekend now can order tickets [here] starting at 10 euros (introductory price on Friday).