Max Verstappen dominated the Nürburgring Nordschleife shortly after earning his GT3 license, showcasing his skill by winning the ninth round of the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie alongside Chris Lulham. This swift success has sparked reactions from fellow driver Lando Norris, who highlighted Verstappen’s unique position enabling such achievements. Verstappen’s triumph at the demanding German circuit adds another chapter to his impressive track record, often referred to as Max Verstappen Nürburgring success.
How Verstappen Seized Victory at the Nürburgring
In only his debut GT3 race at the Nürburgring, Verstappen qualified in third place but quickly took the lead by the first corner. He built a commanding advantage during his stint in the No. 33 Ferrari 296 GT3, creating a gap of approximately one minute before handing the car to teammate Chris Lulham. Despite multiple caution periods towards the end of the race that reduced their lead, Lulham maintained enough pace and composure to secure a win ahead of Ford and Aston Martin entries.
This victory came just weeks after Verstappen received his licence to compete in GT3 races on the demanding “Green Hell,” a nickname for the challenging Nürburgring Nordschleife track known for its complexity and length.
Lando Norris Reflects on Verstappen’s Nürburgring Achievement
Speaking before the Singapore Grand Prix, Norris acknowledged Verstappen’s willingness to take on such a challenge, recognizing the circumstances that allow him to do so.
“I respect Max for going and doing such a thing,” Norris said (via RN365). He’s in a much easier position to go and do those things. If he’s fighting for a championship, it probably wouldn’t look the best. But he’s in a position where he’s also won four championships.”
Norris contrasted Verstappen’s situation with his own, noting that while he admires Verstappen’s ventures, he faces a different set of pressures while still fighting within the Formula 1 championship battle. Verstappen currently leads the standings with 255 points, though McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Norris himself hold 324 and 299 points respectively, making the remaining seven races critical. The Singapore GP, scheduled for this weekend at Marina Bay, represents the only track where Verstappen has yet to claim victory, adding to its importance in the title fight.
Norris Shares His Own Ambitions Beyond F1
Norris expressed a similar eagerness to explore racing outside Formula 1, while stressing the practical difference in timing compared to Verstappen’s current freedom to compete elsewhere.
“He has a bit of an easier time than maybe what me and Oscar do at the minute, but certainly in my future, I’ll go and do it,” Norris said. “I have the same want and desire as Max to go and do other things, and just go do whatever I enjoy.”
While Norris maintains his focus on the intense championship tussle, he is clearly considering future racing opportunities that include endurance events and other motorsport disciplines.
Lando Norris Sets His Sights on Endurance Racing and Le Mans
Having already gained experience in endurance racing through the 24 Hours of Daytona in 2018 alongside Fernando Alonso and Phil Hanson, Norris now sees a clearer path to series like the FIA World Endurance Championship. McLaren’s announcement of an LMDh Hypercar program for 2027, with CEO Zak Brown confirming their aim for the motorsport triple crown, aligns with Norris’s aspirations.
When asked about the prospect of racing at Le Mans, Norris responded enthusiastically:
“I would love to. Zak spoke about it with McLaren going to Le Mans. I’m not going to be in Formula 1 forever. I want to go and do other things and live my life, try the things. Whether it’s Le Mans or Daytona or Sebring, whatever it might be, I want to go do all the things.”
This expansion beyond F1 reflects McLaren’s ambitions supported by Abu Dhabi’s CYVN Holdings, which invests in multiple racing programs. For Norris, endurance racing represents a real option after his Formula 1 career, offering variety and new challenges.
Championship Pressure Intensifies at the Singapore Grand Prix
Despite his interest in other racing categories, Norris remains fully engaged in the current F1 championship fight. Alongside teammate Oscar Piastri, he pursues both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles. McLaren is within reach of securing the constructors’ championship, needing just 13 points at the Singapore Grand Prix to clinch the trophy. The race at the Marina Bay circuit is expected to play a pivotal role in deciding the outcomes of these tightly contested championships.
With Max Verstappen pushing to extend his remarkable run of success—particularly his Max Verstappen Nürburgring success—this season continues to feature intense battles on and off the track, making the upcoming rounds crucial for all involved.
