Red Bull Racing’s Max Verstappen is competing in this weekend’s ADAC Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) event, navigating a complex licensing process required to race at the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Despite his status as a four-time Formula 1 world champion, Verstappen had to earn his race license by proving himself in lower-powered cars under the German Motor Sport Federation’s (DMSB) regulations.
Before joining the race, Verstappen was required to complete an official test on Friday with the DMSB, which awarded him a B-class license. This license allows him to compete in the Cup3 category rather than the GT3 class he ultimately aims to race in, meaning he must follow a step-by-step progression through smaller classes with restricted vehicle power.
The Racing Restrictions and Licensing Process Explained
Although Verstappen is widely regarded as one of the top drivers in the world, the NLS regulations prevent exceptions even for him. Initially, he was only permitted to race a Porsche Cayman GT4 CS limited to no more than 300 horsepower, despite the car’s actual 425 hp output. This restriction meant Verstappen had to complete 14 laps around the Nordschleife and finish two full races before qualifying for the A-class license needed to race GT3 vehicles.
Verstappen’s debut in the Cup3 class demonstrated his adaptability. Even in a car hampered by a 125 hp deficit compared to competitors, he managed to secure sixth place in qualifying and finished just 15 seconds behind the leader of the class. Impressively, he recorded a time over 25 seconds quicker than the next driver in a similarly specced Cup3 Cayman.
Helmut Marko Commends Verstappen’s Positive Attitude Amid Bureaucratic Challenges
Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko highlighted Verstappen’s mindset during the licensing ordeal, praising his acceptance of the stringent procedures despite frustrations with the bureaucracy at the Nürburgring. Marko emphasized Verstappen’s humility and willingness to adhere to the rules without requesting special treatment.
“Despite the terrible bureaucracy at the Nürburgring, he’s extremely positive and goes along with everything. He doesn’t seek special treatment on his own. That’s another thing that sets him apart.” —Helmut Marko, Red Bull advisor
Support from Former F1 Driver Backs Nurburgring’s Standardized Licensing Approach
Several voices in the motorsport community have weighed in on the NLS licensing requirements, including ex-Formula 1 racer Timo Glock. Despite Verstappen’s proven skill and prior simulator experience around both the Nürburgring GP circuit and the Nordschleife, the DMSB maintained its policy of no leniency.
Glock expressed support for the strict rules, noting the unique difficulty of the Nordschleife and the necessity for all drivers to meet the same standards regardless of background or reputation.
“Once you start making exceptions, they’re all there. The fact is: the Nordschleife is different, and the races are different too. I think it’s good that they’re taking the hard route and saying that the same applies to everyone.” —Timo Glock, former F1 driver
“I asked myself this question when I got my permit. Afterwards, I realised it made sense. If I hadn’t done it myself, I might have seen it differently,” he added. —Timo Glock, former F1 driver
Technical Considerations Influencing Verstappen’s Entry Class
Verstappen could have chosen to compete in a lower Cup category that restricts cars to 300 hp, but those cars often feature front-engine configurations with front- or rear-wheel drive. Instead, he opted for the Porsche Cayman GT4 CS, a mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicle more closely aligned with the handling and characteristics of GT3 cars, which he aims to race eventually.
This strategic choice reflects Verstappen’s desire to train under challenging yet relevant conditions, accelerating his adaptation to the more powerful GT3 class despite the added horsepower limitations imposed by the licensing rules.
Implications for Verstappen and Motorsports Licensing Standards
Max Verstappen’s adherence to the NLS’s licensing framework highlights the rigor and fairness applied to all drivers competing at the Nürburgring, regardless of their fame or accomplishments. His willingness to start from the prescribed entry point, combined with his competitive performance in constrained machinery, underscores his commitment to respecting motorsport traditions and safety standards.
Looking ahead, Verstappen’s progression through the licensing tiers will allow him to race in the GT3 category, increasing competition levels and drawing attention to the series. Furthermore, the enforcement of standardized licensing at such a challenging circuit reinforces the Nürburgring’s reputation as one of the most demanding and respected venues in the racing world.
