Nürburg, Germany – Racing pedigree, raw endurance, and pure determination return to the Nordschleife as MINI John Cooper Works and Bulldog Racing announce their formidable driver line-up for the 53rd edition of the ADAC RAVENOL 24h Nürburgring. In what promises to be one of the most thrilling races of the year, the team enters with a mix of seasoned Nürburgring specialists and rising global stars – headlined by Canadian motorsport sensation, Samantha Tan.
The grueling 24-hour showdown through the 25.378-kilometre Nürburgring circuit, infamously dubbed the “Green Hell”, pits over 130 cars against time, weather, and one of the world’s most punishing tracks. For MINI John Cooper Works and Bulldog Racing, the challenge is not unfamiliar — and neither is the taste of success.
A Debut Worth Watching: Samantha Tan Joins MINI for the Nürburgring 24h
At just 27 years old, Samantha Tan is already a globally recognised name in endurance racing. As a driver and team owner of the celebrated Samantha Tan Racing, Tan’s resume spans victories in the 24H Series, 12H Mugello, and the GT World Challenge circuits across both America and Europe. Now, she takes on her most iconic challenge yet: her first outing at the Nürburgring 24 Hours behind the wheel of a MINI John Cooper Works race car.
Tan’s blend of technical precision, racing intuition, and leadership on and off the track makes her a standout addition to the team. With a rapidly growing international fanbase, she continues to inspire a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts — especially young women aiming to break into the upper echelons of competitive racing.
“This isn’t just another race — this is a career milestone. Competing at the Nürburgring is a dream, and doing it with a brand like MINI is incredibly special,” said Tan.
Returning Champions and Rising Stars Join the Charge
Samantha Tan is joined by three highly capable teammates, each bringing their own distinct strengths to the cockpit:
- Markus Fischer (AUT) returns with momentum following a standout performance in 2024, where he piloted the #317 MINI John Cooper Works Pro to a class victory. Renowned for his consistency and pace in endurance events, Fischer is determined to repeat — or exceed — last year’s triumph.
- Sebastian Sauerbrei (GER) provides deep Nürburgring experience. With countless test kilometres and race laps under his belt, he’s an invaluable asset when the going gets tough — particularly in unpredictable Eifel weather conditions. His ability to read the circuit and remain composed through adversity is second to none.
- Toby Goodman (GBR), at just 23 years old, brings youthful energy and a strong track record. Having launched his motorsport journey at age ten, Goodman impressed early with a third-place debut in the 2018 MINI Challenge Trophy. Since then, he has steadily climbed the ranks and proven himself in endurance formats — including previous successes on this very track.
A Race of Legends, a Team of Determination
The Nürburgring 24 Hours is far more than a race — it’s a test of physical stamina, mechanical resilience, and unshakeable mental focus. With the combined talents of Samantha Tan, Markus Fischer, Sebastian Sauerbrei, and Toby Goodman, MINI John Cooper Works and Bulldog Racing are poised to leave an indelible mark on this year’s edition.
From day to night and back again, through rain, traffic, and relentless pressure, this international quartet will tackle one of motorsport’s greatest challenges — together, as one team, in one of the most iconic liveries in racing.
As engines roar and the clock begins its relentless march, all eyes will be on the #317 MINI — a car and team built for endurance, speed, and the undying spirit of competition.
