Max Verstappen recently shared intriguing insights about his experience testing a GT3 car at the iconic Nordschleife circuit in Nurburgring, where he took on the alias “Franz Hermann” during an official test session for the Nurburgring Endurance Series. The four-time Formula 1 champion drove the Ferrari 296 GT3, a vehicle typically raced by Emil Frey Racing in the Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters (DTM). Notably, Verstappen’s protégé, Thierry Vermeulen, is part of the Emil Frey Racing team.
From the outset, there were rumors circulating that Verstappen quickly established a competitive pace. When questioned about whether he had surpassed Norwegian racer Christian Krognes’ NLS GT3 lap record, which stands at 7 minutes and 49.578 seconds, Verstappen confirmed that he indeed had.
“They asked me for a fake name, so I thought it would be fun to choose something that sounded German,” Verstappen explained regarding his selection of the name Franz Hermann. “This way, my name wouldn’t be on the entry list, and people wouldn’t be anticipating my presence at 8 AM. I knew that once I arrived, people would likely recognize me anyway. But at least for a little while, it was calm.”
During the test, Verstappen emphasized that his focus was not on breaking lap records but rather on enjoying the experience and learning the intricacies of the track alongside the Emil Frey Racing team. “I was indeed faster than the NLS GT3 lap record, but my intention wasn’t to prove anything or to chase records. I was there to have fun and gain experience on the track,” he stated.
Verstappen elaborated on the purpose of the test, indicating it was essential for Emil Frey Racing as they prepare for a potential future entry in the prestigious 24-hour race at Nurburgring. He also noted that this experience would help him familiarize himself with the circuit if he were to participate in the 24-hour race someday. “Emil Frey Racing has dreams of competing in the 24-hour event, and this was a great opportunity for us to get comfortable with the track together,” he remarked.
The weather conditions during the test were favorable, with clear sunny skies, which added to the positivity of the experience. Verstappen remarked, “We were lucky with the weather; it was really nice and sunny. It’s always beneficial to have good conditions when testing.”
He expressed his interest in racing at Nurburgring in the future, stating, “I want to gain more experience for myself. This is why I’m taking on these tests, to prepare myself better for any future endeavors at this legendary track.”
To compete on the Nordschleife, Verstappen would need to obtain a DMSB Permit, which would likely require him to progress through various racing categories unless he is granted special permission. He mentioned that he had logged “thousands” of laps in the simulator before arriving at the actual track, which enabled him to have a solid grasp of the circuit layout. “I’ve put in a lot of time in the simulator, so when I got to the real track, it was mostly about assessing the grip levels of the new surface and the car’s behavior,” he shared.
Verstappen also noted that some barriers on the track had been modified, but he felt confident in his knowledge of the circuit. “The most crucial part is knowing exactly where you’re going, and I was already well-prepared for that,” he added.
While he acknowledged that Formula 1 still provides him with more adrenaline, he also found the GT3 testing to be enjoyable. “Testing is a different atmosphere; you’re usually more relaxed,” he commented. “It was a full day of testing with various cars and traffic, but I’ve dealt with that before. You learn how to navigate through slower categories on the sim, so it wasn’t anything new for me.”
Overall, Verstappen’s day at the Nordschleife was not just about testing the Ferrari 296 GT3; it was also an opportunity for him to immerse himself further into the world of endurance racing. With a clear passion for motorsport, he relishes these moments where he can learn and grow as a driver beyond the confines of Formula 1.
As he continues to explore different racing avenues, Verstappen’s experience at the Nurburgring serves as a testament to his dedication to the sport and his willingness to embrace new challenges. His endeavors in GT racing not only enhance his skills but also deepen his appreciation for the diverse and thrilling world of motorsport.
