Event
Since 1973, the second weekend of August has belonged to historic racing at the Nürburgring. The BELMOT Oldtimer Grand Prix has grown into one of Europe's most important historic motorsport festivals – over 500 racing cars spanning nearly a century of competition, 39,000 spectators spread across the paddock and grandstands, and a programme that runs from Friday practice through Sunday's final chequered flag.
The racing itself covers remarkable ground. Pre-war machines open the history lesson, followed by the elegant sports cars and GTs of the 1950s and 1960s – Porsche 904s, Mercedes 300 SLs, Ferrari 250 GT SWBs – cars that evoke Le Mans in its golden era. The Masters Racing Legends bring original Cosworth-era Formula One cars back to the track, their three-litre V8s producing a sound that modern racing simply cannot replicate. Touring car fans get the DRM Revival with its thunderous Group 5 machinery, plus the Golden Era Touring Cars featuring former DTM champions like Roland Asch and Volker Strycek reunited with their BMW M3s and Mercedes 190Es.
The Saturday evening race has become a highlight in its own right – two-seater sports cars and GTs running as dusk falls over the Eifel, concluding with fireworks at the finish. For 2026, expect additions including Super Touring car races and expanded historic motorcycle demonstrations.
What sets the OGP apart is accessibility. The Grand Prix paddock remains fully open to all ticket holders, allowing genuine proximity to cars, drivers and mechanics. The Historic Paddock houses pre-1950s machinery in period surroundings. The AMG Arena hosts club gatherings representing every marque. Under-17s enter free.
The Nürburgring lies in the Eifel region, roughly ninety minutes from Cologne. Accommodation books quickly – plan ahead if you want to stay nearby.
