- Has Valentino Rossi raced at the Nürburgring before?
- Rossi has tested at the Nordschleife in touring cars but has never competed in the 24 Hours. His interest in the event dates back to his MotoGP retirement talks in 2021.
- What class would Rossi likely compete in?
- Industry sources suggest a GT3 entry, aligning with the race’s most competitive amateur-professional category. GT3 cars balance performance and cost, making them accessible for veteran drivers.
- How does Verstappen’s participation factor into Rossi’s decision?
- Verstappen’s 2026 entry has amplified media coverage and fan engagement for the event. Rossi’s team cites the increased visibility as a key motivator to fast-track their Nürburgring project.
- What are the biggest challenges Rossi would face at the Nürburgring?
- The Nordschleife’s 73 left-right turns, elevation changes, and unpredictable weather demand precision and stamina. Rossi would also need to adapt from bike control to car handling, a steep learning curve even for experienced drivers.
- Could Rossi’s entry attract new sponsors to endurance racing?
- Absolutely. Rossi’s global brand—valued in the hundreds of millions—could lure sponsors from MotoGP and mainstream markets, diversifying endurance racing’s funding base.
- How might Rossi’s participation impact ticket sales and TV ratings?
- Ticket demand for the 2026 edition has already spiked by 30% since Verstappen’s announcement. Rossi’s entry could push global TV ratings beyond the 50 million viewers recorded in 2024, especially in Italy and Spain where his fanbases are strongest.
