Max Verstappen‘s participation in a restricted Porsche at the Nurburgring Endurance Series (NLS) race this past weekend has reignited discussion about the strict regulations governing racing licences at the famous German circuit. Despite his status as a four-time Formula 1 World Champion, Verstappen was required to follow the same licensing protocols as amateur drivers, a situation that has been called “embarrassing” by former F1 driver Ralf Schumacher.
The Dutch star made his racing debut at the Nordschleife on Saturday, driving a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 in the CUP3(G) class, as part of his effort to obtain the DMSB Permit Nordschleife, which would allow him to compete in major endurance races like the Nurburgring 24 Hours. His weekend focused on fulfilling the requirements of this special permit, including completing a set number of racing laps under tightly controlled conditions.
The Process Behind Verstappen’s Licensing Challenge
Verstappen’s participation at the Nordschleife was designed to help him advance from Permit ‘B’ to Permit ‘A’, the latter being necessary for entry into higher-profile endurance events. He secured his Permit ‘B’ during Friday practice and then tackled Saturday’s race, aiming to complete the mandatory 14 laps for Permit ‘A’ validation.
Unlike his previous test in May, where he drove a Ferrari 296 GT3 under the alias Franz Harmann, Verstappen was not permitted to race such a high-powered car this time. Instead, he was restricted to a detuned Porsche Cayman producing only 300bhp, with no exceptions made despite his elite racing credentials. Nevertheless, Verstappen’s pace was impressive; he qualified 25 seconds faster than any other competitor in the CUP3 class.
Alongside teammate Chris Lulham, Verstappen clinched the win in the CUP3(G) category and finished seventh among all CUP3 entrants, placing 27th overall in the race. This strong performance helped him meet one of the crucial criteria for attaining the full racing permit at the Nordschleife.
Ralf Schumacher Criticizes Licensing Restrictions as Embarrassing
Ralf Schumacher expressed surprise and disappointment that Verstappen, given his proven expertise and champion status, was subjected to the same licensing hurdles as amateur racers. Schumacher told Motorsport-Total.com,
“Well, I would have given it to him straight away, of course,” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver
He suggested that a simple briefing regarding the unique challenges of the Nordschleife track would suffice for someone of Verstappen’s calibre, saying,
“Or he could have been given a briefing about the Nordschleife and the specific things. That would have been the end of it. The best driver in the world will manage it if the others can do it, I’m pretty sure of that. Instead of many people being happy that Max is bringing this attention back to the Nordschleife and to what all the drivers achieve there, people are arguing about him getting his permit before he even drives. That’s embarrassing.” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver
Schumacher highlighted the irony in the focus on licensing paperwork rather than appreciating the spotlight Verstappen’s involvement brings to the circuit and the demanding achievement of mastering it.
Verstappen’s Commitment and Safety Considerations at the Nordschleife
The Nurburgring remains a notoriously dangerous track, often nicknamed the “Green Hell” for its complexity and risk, a reality acknowledged even by Schumacher. Although he supports Verstappen receiving special consideration, Schumacher noted,
“But of course, the Nordschleife is not without its dangers.” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver
He explained the unique challenges the track poses, including limited run-off areas, varying vehicle classes sharing the circuit, and poor visibility during night driving, stating,
“Just the run-off areas alone, the differences between the various classes, poor visibility at night,” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver
He also praised the dedication of all drivers competing there, adding,
“I have to say, hats off to the guys.” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver
Verstappen’s careful progress through the licensing process underlines the serious nature of racing at the Nordschleife, where both respect for safety and skill are paramount despite his high-profile background.
Balancing Racing Ambitions with F1 Commitments
Verstappen’s decision to race in an endurance event during the ongoing Formula 1 season reflects his passion for motorsport beyond his primary Red Bull F1 role. Schumacher noted the dual risk and dedication involved, as Verstappen balances his professional obligations with personal interests, even with family commitments.
He observed,
“I think [Red Bull] forbidding him to do so would either make him lose interest in where he is now or make him sulky,” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver
Schumacher found it noteworthy that despite having children and a demanding F1 schedule, Verstappen still prioritizes time to enjoy racing in different formats, showing a genuine love for the sport.
Verstappen’s Future Racing Goals Beyond Formula 1
Outside of physical racing, Verstappen also competes in online endurance events with Team Redline, a sim racing squad. Recently, in a video produced by Ford—Red Bull Powertrains’ engine partner—he expressed enthusiasm for expanding his racing horizons, saying,
“wants to do all of them” —Max Verstappen, racing driver
He expressed particular interest in GT3 racing and noted Ford’s involvement in multiple projects, including their return to Le Mans with a Hypercar program, saying,
“[Ford] are involved in so many racing projects, and of course, they’re coming back to Le Mans with a Hypercar.” —Max Verstappen, racing driver
These ambitions indicate Verstappen’s long-term vision to participate in a wider variety of motorsport events beyond the Grand Prix calendar.
Potential Impact of Verstappen’s Entry into the Nurburgring 24 Hours
When Verstappen eventually earns his Permit ‘A’ and competes in a full endurance race like the Nurburgring 24 Hours driving a GT3 car, Schumacher expects him to be an immediate contender for overall victory due to his raw talent and experience. He stated,
“In terms of his performance, definitely,” —Ralf Schumacher, former F1 driver
However, Schumacher also emphasized endurance racing’s unpredictability, pointing to the importance of the right team, reliable equipment, weather conditions, and tyre choices, stating:
“The car has to hold up. Nothing can happen. The weather has to be halfway decent. You have to have the right tyre manufacturer for all weather eventualities.”
He concluded,
“But in terms of pure performance, he’s immediately in contention for the win, no question about it. And of course, he has that well under control thanks to his experience. He feels the limits of the car and knows exactly what it means to take care of it. So from that point of view, definitely.”
Verstappen’s progression at the Nordschleife could mark the beginning of a broader motorsport campaign, bringing more attention and excitement to endurance racing events globally.
