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Max Verstappen has been welcomed into the Nurburgring paddock with open arms by his fellow drivers as he prepares to compete in the infamous circuit's flagship event. Four-time Formula 1 world champion Verstappen's name is on the entry list for the Nurburgring 24 Hours, which begins on Saturday, having targeted an appearance for several months.

His presence has seen a massive surge of interest from casual fans and a huge uptick in ticket sales. It was confirmed earlier this week that weekend passes had sold out for the first time in the 24-hour race's history as fans flock to the Rhineland to catch a glimpse of the Dutchman in action, driving a distinctive blue-and-red Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo - covered, of course, in Red Bull branding.

Naturally, the organisers are loving all the extra eyes on their event and racer Nico Menzel says the feeling is mutual for the other drivers too. Known as the 'Kid of the Ring', having first competed at the Nurburgring as a teenager, 28-year-old Menzel is relishing the opportunity to go up against Verstappen on track in his Dunlop Motorsport Porsche 911 GT3 R Evo.

He said: "Max is a racer - he simply loves racing, and that connects all of us. He's not shy: racing in different categories, in different cars, in a completely new environment. I love seeing him do this and it's great to have him here. I don't think anyone doubts that Max is probably the best driver in the world, maybe even the best we've ever seen. To be able to race against him, while he brings so much passion and attracts huge attention to the sport, is incredibly positive.

"Sometimes you race against F1 drivers, but usually they are former Formula 1 drivers. Competing against an active Formula 1 world champion is something special. However, when it comes to racing, it doesn't matter what car is in front or behind me. If it's a blue-and-red Mercedes, I'll try to catch and overtake him. And if he gets big in my mirrors, I'll try to keep him behind me."

Verstappen arrived in Germany having not fully qualified for the race, because of a disqualification and a mechanical problem which scuppered his efforts in two recent races at the 'Green Hell'. But he made sure of his place in the 24-hour showdown by completing two timed laps in the afternoon session on Thursday and actually going third fastest overall.

Verstappen also got some valuable experience of driving on the Nordschleife in the dark a few hours later to help prepare him for any overnight stints he is planning for the race. And it turned out to be useful practice as heavy rain created some treacherous conditions on a circuit which is known to be difficult and dangerous at the best of times.

More changeable conditions are currently forecast for the rest of the weekend with rain likely on Saturday evening, while temperatures could dip to as low as three degrees overnight which will make grip even more difficult to come by. And with more wet weather coming on Sunday, the rain could make for a grandstand finish to an event which will be watched with interest by F1 fans around the world.