Background car news

Dutchman drives most laps

Of course, people from Germany mainly drive the Nürburgring Nordschleife. But in this case, we are looking at tourists. Here the Netherlands is in first place by a gigantic margin, with a percentage of 31.1 percent. In second place is Belgium (19.2 percent), followed by the United Kingdom in third place (15.7 percent). Apparently, several Dutch people like to let their (enthusiast) car “loose” on this famous circuit.

Nürburgring Nordschleife: the phenomenon

The Nürburgring Nordschleife – which is about a three-hour drive (300 kilometers) from Utrecht – is legendary, fascinating and popular with enthusiasts who want to drive it themselves for several reasons.

Challenging and diverse course

The Nordschleife has more than 20 kilometers of turns, elevation changes and treacherous sections. As a driver, you literally get everything: fast sections like Döttinger Höhe, blind corners like Pflanzgarten and technical passages like Adenauer Forst or the Karussell. Every corner is different, requiring you to constantly stay sharp. The circuit forces you to be respectful and precise.

Public access

Unlike many other circuits, you can drive on the Nordschleife as an individual during so-called Touristenfahrten. You don’t need a racing license – a normal car will do. As a result, a dream that normally seems unattainable suddenly comes within reach.

Unforgettable experience

The mix of speed, history and adrenaline makes every lap magical. Even with an average car, you get goosebumps. The feeling when you race through the long, rolling curves with the Eifel surrounding you is pure enjoyment.

You share the job with like-minded people

Whether you drive a hot hatch, sports car or motorcycle, you meet people with the same passion for driving. There is a comradely atmosphere, especially among Nordschleife-regulars.

Why the circuit is iconic

Nicknamed “The Green Hell,

The famous nickname “Grüne Hölle” comes from F1 legend Jackie Stewart. That name sums it up: it is a relentless, long and difficult track, surrounded by forests and hills. A perfect mix of beauty and danger.

Historic Formula One History

From 1951 to 1976, the Nordschleife was part of the Formula 1 calendar. Especially in the 1960s and 1970s, it was a true spectacle – but also notorious for its risks. The crash of Niki Lauda in 1976 meant the end of F1 races at this track, which only reinforced the myth.

Test site for car manufacturers

Virtually every sporting brand tests its models on the Nordschleife. From the Porsche 911 to the BMW M3, their performance on the ‘Ring’ is a major selling point. The ‘Ring time’ has almost become a benchmark in the industry.

Cultural icon in the automotive world

The track pops up in games such as Gran Turismo, Forza and Assetto Corsa, in YouTube videos, documentaries and even in pop culture. It is the symbol of the ultimate driving experience.

Why the Nordschleife is important to the auto industry

Extremely demanding test course

With its combination of curves, bumps, compressions and elevation difference, the Nordschleife simulates almost every type of road in the world. If a car can hold up here, it will do it anywhere.

Development of handling and chassis

Feedback from engineers after Nordschleife tests is often decisive in the tuning of sporty models. Even electric cars are extensively tested there these days.

Marketing Value

A fast lap time on the Nordschleife generates publicity. It has become a powerful marketing tool, especially in the hot hatches and supercars segment.