Max Verstappen delivered a remarkable display during the Nurburgring qualifying session, securing sixth position in the CUP3 class ahead of the four-hour race scheduled for Saturday afternoon. Driving a detuned Porsche GT4 Cayman, Verstappen showcased his driving talent on the demanding Nurburgring circuit, known for its challenging nature and complexity.
Although Verstappen was 15.3 seconds behind the fastest time in his class, the highlight was his astounding 68.4-second lead over the closest competitor in the CUP3(G) category. This significant gap highlights Verstappen’s skill and deep familiarity with the treacherous “Green Hell” track.
Conquering the Nurburgring’s Difficult Conditions
Saturday morning’s qualifying took place under wet conditions, with Verstappen competing among numerous GT3 and GT4 drivers aiming for positions in the NLS7 race. The Nurburgring’s full layout incorporates the Grand Prix circuit and the infamous Nordschleife, encompassing around 170 corners in a single lap, posing an immense challenge for all drivers.
This event is crucial for Verstappen, as he aims to secure the specialized racing license required for future Nurburgring competitions, including the coveted 24-hour endurance race. The Porsche GT4 Caymans used in the CUP3(G) class have been detuned from approximately 425bhp to 300bhp, but this did not prevent Verstappen from dominating the field. Starting with a lap time of 10:34.244, he improved dramatically by cutting 13 seconds off, ultimately setting a fastest lap of 10:21.591.
Verstappen’s Exceptional Gap Over Rivals and Preparation
To emphasize Verstappen’s dominance, his fastest lap was a staggering 68.5 seconds quicker than his closest competitor in the same class, underscoring his exceptional pace and mastery of the circuit. His extensive simulator work clearly contributed to this feat, as he entered the May GT3 test at Nurburgring with thorough knowledge of the track.
Verstappen will team up with 22-year-old Chris Lulham for the upcoming race, representing Team Redline, a respected sim racing team. Speaking about his goals and passion, Verstappen shared:
Racing is not just my profession, but also my hobby. This weekend I am at the Nordschleife with the goal to qualify for the mandatory race permit needed to race here in a GT3 car, which I would love.
—Max Verstappen, Racing Driver
He also expressed his enthusiasm for the circuit itself:
The Nordschleife is at the top of my list of tracks I want to race on, as it’s extremely challenging and demanding, with its enormous length and tight historic layout. I can’t wait!
—Max Verstappen, Racing Driver
Looking Ahead to the Race and Verstappen’s Growing Legacy
With the race approaching, attention turns to whether Verstappen can carry over his exceptional qualifying pace into race day success. His performance signals strong potential to compete at the highest levels on one of the world’s most demanding tracks. Achieving a competitive result at Nurburgring would further establish his reputation as one of motorsport’s elite drivers and fuel ambitions to compete in prestigious endurance events on this legendary circuit.
