The 2023 24 Hours of Nürburgring concluded with a historic victory for Frikadelli Racing, a team led by Klaus Abbelen that secured the first-ever win for a Ferrari in the event. This achievement marked a career milestone for the German entrepreneur, who has balanced professional business leadership with an extensive background in motorcycle and automobile racing.
Business Ventures and Manufacturing
Born in 1960 in Tönisvorst, Abbelen established himself early in the industrial sector. He served as the owner of Abbelen GmbH, a German manufacturer specializing in the production of Frikadellen. He maintained control of the family business until 2017, when he stepped away from the manufacturing operations to focus primarily on his racing activities.
Transition to Motorsport
Abbelen began his competitive career during the late 1970s as a motorcycle racer. Near the turn of the century, he transitioned to automobile racing, participating in the 1999 Ferrari Porsche Challenge. His early automotive experience included a foray into the 2003 Porsche Supercup and an appearance in the FFSA GT Championship, where he drove a Porsche 911 alongside Stéphane Ortelli.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Nürburgring Competition
The Nürburgring circuit became the center of Abbelen's racing activity. After an initial failure to qualify for the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in 2002, he achieved an overall podium finish in the 2008 edition of the race. He recorded his first win in the VLN Series in 2013. In September 2025, he formally retired from Nürburgring racing after completing an NLS9 race as a solo GT3 driver, securing second place in the SP9 Am class.
Frikadelli Racing Leadership
In 2005, Abbelen and his wife, the racing driver Sabine Schmitz, founded the Eifel-based team Frikadelli Racing. The duo operated the team together until Schmitz’s death in 2021. Under Abbelen's leadership, the team achieved significant success, including the 2023 24 Hours of Nürburgring win. Beyond the Eifel circuit, the team competed in events such as the 24 Hours of Daytona in 2016 and the 2020 24 Hours of Spa.
Prototype and Historic Racing
Abbelen's career diversified into prototype racing and historic events. He competed in the full 2024 Prototype Cup Germany season, driving a Ligier JS P320 with Felipe Fernández Laser, and secured a win at the Hockenheimring. During 2025 and 2026, he transitioned his focus toward historic racing, participating in events while driving a Porsche 962.
Fast facts
- Born: 1960, Tönisvorst
- Citizenship: Germany
- Primary racing team: Frikadelli Racing
- Business background: Former owner of Abbelen GmbH
- Early career: Motorcycle racer
- Major victory: 2023 24 Hours of Nürburgring
- Spouse: Sabine Schmitz (died 2021)
- Nürburgring retirement: September 2025
Questions readers ask
Did Klaus Abbelen own a food company?
Yes, he owned Abbelen GmbH, a German manufacturer of Frikadellen, until 2017.
What was the result of Frikadelli Racing's 2023 Nürburgring entry?
The team won the 2023 24 Hours of Nürburgring driving a Ferrari 296 GT3.
