Following the successful premiere of the BMW 325i Challenge by Goodyear last year, the ADAC RAVENOL Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) is taking the next step in its grassroots motorsport initiative. For the 2026 season, targeted adjustments have been made to the regulations to make entry even more attractive for amateur teams and to further reduce costs.
More flexible tire regulations thanks to strong performance
A key aspect of the changes concerns tires. The partnership with Goodyear proved to be a resounding success in its first year: The tires demonstrated such high durability and performance that the regulations could be adjusted to benefit the teams.
From now on, the requirement to purchase a complete set (four new tires) for each event has been eliminated. Teams only need to buy tires when they actually require them. This significantly reduces ongoing season costs. Exclusivity remains in place: Both slick and rain tires must still be sourced through Goodyear to guarantee fair competition and maximum safety.
Technical Check: Easier Entry with Stock Software
To keep the hurdles for newcomers as low as possible, the class is becoming more technically accessible. Teams whose vehicles still have the original OEM software can now submit an application to start the race without having to send in their software beforehand.
“We want the BMW 325i to remain the simplest way to get on the Nordschleife,” explains Sebastian Schuricht from the VLN technical team. “The check is carried out on-site without any red tape. This removes a potential financial and technical barrier for everyone who wants to take their car straight from the garage to the racetrack.”
About the BMW 325i Challenge
The class was launched in 2025 to promote classic grassroots motorsport (“Back to the Roots”) on the Nordschleife. Vehicles from the BMW 3 Series (E90, E91, E92 and E46) are eligible, with the aim of enabling exciting multi-class racing at affordable budgets. Participants also collect valuable points for the prestigious BMW M Sports Trophy.
