Max Verstappen, the Dutch four-time Formula One champion, made a notable entrance in the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS) during his first day behind the wheel. After completing a training session and passing an exam on Friday, Verstappen was awarded his DMSB permit. He delivered a strong qualifying lap in the ADAC ACAS Cup and helped his Lionspeed GP team secure a seventh-place finish in their class and 27th overall, with Chris Lulham crossing the finish line.
Progression Through License Levels and Race Details
Before the race, Verstappen earned the B-permit through his training and assessment, allowing him to compete only in the GT4 category during Saturday’s event. He drove the No. 980 Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 RS, fielded by Lionspeed GP, and completed 14 laps in the four-hour endurance race. This performance earned him an A-Permit, enabling him to race in the faster GT3 class going forward.
Despite the Porsche being detuned with a 125 horsepower deficit, Verstappen managed to qualify sixth in his class, timing 10:21.591, just over 15 seconds slower than the No. 959 from Sorg Rennsport. Even with reduced power, Verstappen was more than 25 seconds quicker than the next best driver in the GT4 category.
Race Highlights and Challenges During the Stint
Verstappen started his stint with promising pace, maintaining a position near the front of his class. Unfortunately, a sluggish pit stop caused the No. 980 car to drop down the order. Despite this setback, Verstappen recorded the fastest lap among his teammates and was the quickest Cup3(G) entry, posting a time of 09:01.4 during the race.
There were initial reports that Verstappen might compete in both of Lionspeed GP’s entries to expedite earning his Grade A licence. However, the No. 89 car, which he was scheduled to race in second, encountered technical difficulties and did not start. Therefore, Verstappen is expected to participate in at least one more race with his B Permit before qualifying for the A Permit.
Next Steps in Verstappen’s Endurance Racing Journey
Verstappen is set to continue his Nürburgring campaign by racing in the 64th ADAC Reinoldus, the second segment of the four-hour endurance doubleheader scheduled for the following day. His ongoing progression at the Nürburgring reflects a focused effort to expand his racing credentials beyond Formula One and gain valuable experience on one of the most demanding circuits in motorsport.
