‘I know myself’ - Verstappen explained why he avoided Nürburgring 24H start

The experienced Spanish GT driver had the honour of starting the race aboard the #3 Verstappen.com Mercedes-AMG GT3, battling wheel-to-wheel throughout the opening lap before leading the car through the entire first stint of the gruelling endurance race. He then handed the car over to the four-time world champion, who went on to put on a show during an impressive double stint.

Speaking to SoyMotor, Juncadella revealed that Verstappen had originally been expected to take the start of the Nürburgring 24 Hours, having already fulfilled that role during the team’s previous practice races. The Spaniard explained that the idea made perfect sense given Verstappen’s experience and aggressive racing instincts, especially in the chaotic opening stages of such a demanding endurance event.

However, the plan eventually changed after Verstappen himself approached Juncadella on Friday evening following qualifying. According to the Spaniard, the Dutchman admitted he knew his own mindset too well and felt that, starting from fourth on the grid in a 24-hour race, he would immediately be tempted to attack everyone around him. For that reason, Verstappen ultimately suggested it would be better for Juncadella to take the start instead.

Shortly after the end of the Nürburgring 24 Hours, Jules Gounon reflected on the crushing disappointment suffered by Verstappen Racing following the late technical issue that destroyed the team’s hopes of victory. The Frenchman, who shared the #3 Mercedes-AMG GT3 with Verstappen, Lucas Auer and Juncadella, admitted the result was extremely difficult to accept considering how strongly the crew had performed throughout the race.

He explained that the team had executed the race almost perfectly from start to finish before the Nordschleife once again reminded everyone of its unforgiving nature. He also praised the enormous effort made behind the scenes by the entire team over the course of the weekend, while admitting the painful ending would take time to fully digest.

At that point, Verstappen stepped into the role of team leader, comforting the Frenchman with a short message under the post that read “we’ll be back mate.” The comment also sparked excitement among fans, with many beginning to speculate about a possible return to the Nürburgring 24 Hours in the future.