Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 champion, ventured into GT racing during his break between the Italian and Azerbaijani Grands Prix. He took on the challenge at the renowned Nurburgring Nordschleife in Germany, participating in the ADAC Nurburgring Langstrecken-Serie rounds seven and eight. In a departure from his recent F1 success at Monza, where he secured victory from pole position, Verstappen experienced a slow start in the GT race, being passed by seven competitors right at the beginning.
The reason behind Verstappen’s sluggish start was his participation in the race under restricted conditions. He was behind the wheel of a Red Bull-themed Porsche Cayman GT4 #980, as he is yet to obtain his full racing license for the Nurburgring circuit. Despite this limitation, Verstappen obtained his B permit just before the race, having previously set an unofficial lap record under a disguised identity in May.
Due to his provisional license status, Verstappen’s car was deliberately slowed down, putting him at a horsepower disadvantage compared to his rivals in the same Cup3 category. Nevertheless, Verstappen showcased his driving prowess by clocking an impressive lap time of 10:21.591, outperforming other GT4 competitors by over 25 seconds. This achievement secured him sixth place in his class and 27th overall.
To upgrade to his full license, Verstappen must complete 14 error-free laps in his GT4. If successful, he aims to return in two weeks’ time to compete in a Ferrari 296 GT3 during the 57th ADAC Barbarossapreis. Former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher, brother of the legendary Michael Schumacher, criticized the delay in granting Verstappen his full license, emphasizing his exceptional driving skills warrant immediate approval.
Verstappen expressed his enjoyment of exploring different racing categories, noting a more relaxed atmosphere outside of F1 while maintaining a strong desire to win. He stressed the importance of savoring the present moment and balancing his career with family commitments. Fans can support Max Verstappen and Red Bull Racing with discounted teamwear, merchandise, and memorabilia through the F1 Store sale.
