ADAC NLS has withdrawn its bid for a 10‑year exclusive 24‑hour contract at Nürburgring after a court ruling mandates open access for all organisers.
Re‑branding and Sponsor Shake‑Up
In 2024, the three regional ADAC branches—Nordrhein, Mittelrhein and Westfalen—united as title sponsors, renaming the endurance championship the ADAC NLS. The alliance collapsed when ADAC Nordrhein could not secure the anticipated control; the series retained its independence and switched to ADAC Westfalen and Mittelrhein as sole sponsors. In 2025, the event was re‑branded ADAC Ravenol NLS, sharing a name with the 24‑hour race itself.
Financial Resilience Amid Legal Pul‑back
Despite costly litigation with NR Holding, VLN managed to keep its finances stable without ADAC Nordrhein’s backing. The series’ management highlighted that the championship remains on solid financial ground, with alternative funding acquired after the failed partnership.
Courts Preserve Equality on Nordschleife Dates
The High Regional Court upheld the January 2024 ruling that forces Nürburgring to offer equal venue availability to every promoter. This decision negates any unilateral 10‑year contract that ADAC Nordrhein was seeking. The ruling also prevents new long‑term venue contracts, meaning all future dates must be awarded through public tender.
Strategic Reaction: A New Sprint Series?
To cement its presence, ADAC Nordrhein is launching a standalone 24‑hour sprint series on the circuit’s Nordschleife. However, news of the legal precedent suggests even these newly added dates cannot simply be converted into a marathon event because of local noise restrictions and the court’s prohibition on exclusive long‑term deals.
Future Outlook for the Endurance Circuit
With the legal precedent in place, the Nürburgring’s summit will compete to secure the 24‑hour slot every year, leaving organisers to duel within a public tender environment. Meanwhile, VLN refuses to relinquish its legal advantage unless a strong, binding guarantee of long‑term access is provided. The shifting alliances and litigation have reshaped the ballgame around the Nordschleife, making the future of the ADAC NLS less predictable for all stakeholders.
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