P1racenews AI automatic summary:
The 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours has already delivered drama within the opening hour
The 2026 Nurburgring 24 Hours race got off to a dramatic start with both Red Bull-backed Team Abt Lamborghinis facing troubles in the opening hour.
Mirko Bortolotti started from pole but lost the lead to Marco Mapelli, who was later penalized for a jump-start.
Bortolotti was tapped by Dani Juncadella’s Team Verstappen Mercedes, leading to a puncture and a tire change shortly after.
Despite the challenges, Kevin Estre in the #911 Porsche made impressive progress, moving up from eighth to second place.
With Mapelli out of the lead fight due to the penalty, Juncadella’s Team Verstappen Mercedes and Christopher Haase’s Audi are now vying for podium positions.
