Reigning Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen is preparing to participate in the seventh round of the 2025 Nürburgring Langstrecken-Series (NLS) this weekend, aiming to secure a Nordschleife racing license. Verstappen is expected to race in a Porsche GT4 CS as part of his efforts to gain the necessary experience and points.
The NLS is a demanding long-distance racing championship held exclusively on the Nürburgring Nordschleife, a 24.358-kilometer circuit that incorporates both the Nordschleife and the shorter sprint track. The 2025 season comprises 10 rounds, with the weekend featuring a double-header: the 65th ADAC ACAS Cup on September 13, followed by the 64th ADAC Reinoldus-Langstreckenrennen on September 14.
Verstappen to Drive Porsche Cayman GT4 CS to Obtain A Permit
On Saturday, Verstappen will pilot the Porsche Cayman GT4 CS, aiming to secure an A Permit that will allow him to race in the GT3 category alongside Emil Frey Racing on Sunday, driving a Ferrari 296 GT3. This license upgrade is crucial since his current entry-level permit does not permit participation in GT3 class vehicles.
The Porsche Cayman GT4 features a 425-horsepower engine and weighs 1,315 kilograms, resulting in a power-to-weight ratio of approximately 3.1 kg per hp. This is noticeably below the 4.2 kg per hp minimum limit set by the DMSB Permit Nordschleife (DPN) for beginner drivers on this track. To earn the A Permit, Verstappen must complete two races in different Lionspeed GT4 Caymans, securing classified results in each.
The DPN licensing system works in two stages: drivers with the higher-level Permit A are authorized to race cars with power-to-weight ratios under 4.2 kg per hp, which includes most GT3 cars. Verstappen’s efforts on Saturday are therefore essential to compete legally in the GT3 category on Sunday.
Previous Experience and Hidden Identity in NLS Testing
This will not be Verstappen’s first time at the Nürburgring Nordschleife in the context of the NLS Series. Back in May, he participated in an official NLS test ahead of Round 3, held on May 10. To maintain privacy during that test event, Verstappen raced under the alias ‘Franz Hermann,’ a name displayed on his car.
Earlier in 2024, Verstappen expressed his admiration for the Nürburgring track and his interest in competing in the series. He described the circuit as one of his favorites and looked forward to racing there more seriously in the future.
“The Nurburgring Nordschleife is one of my absolute favourite race tracks, and I hope that in a few years, I can also compete here with a real GT3.” —Max Verstappen
Fan Engagement and Broadcast Details for Upcoming Races
Max Verstappen’s participation is expected to draw significant attention to the Nürburgring-based NLS series. Fans can follow the action live, with Saturday’s 65th ADAC ACAS Cup and Sunday’s 64th ADAC Reinoldus-Langstreckenrennen streamed via Motorsport.TV. This opportunity provides viewers a chance to witness the Red Bull star’s transition from Formula 1 circuits to the challenging Nordschleife track in GT4 and GT3 cars.
