Max Verstappen, known as a four-time Formula 1 world champion, is breaking the usual image of a millionaire athlete by personally handling his petrol expenses in a different racing series. This week, Verstappen is taking a step away from the high-speed intrigue of F1 to compete at the historic Nurburgring, where he is participating in the NLS series, aiming to earn an ‘A Permit’ license necessary for future GT racing ambitions.
Unlike in Formula 1, where teams cover extensive logistical costs including fuel, drivers in the NLS series must manage some of these expenses themselves. Verstappen’s decision to join this competition means he faces paying for petrol during pit stops, a surprising reality for someone earning over £50 million a year in F1.
Verstappen’s New Challenge with Porsche and Pursuit of Racing Licenses
In this new venture, Verstappen is driving a detuned Porsche rather than his usual Red Bull, not chasing wins but aiming to complete 14 perfect laps. Successfully doing so grants him the ‘A Permit,’ a crucial credential that will allow him to drive a Ferrari 296 GT3 for Emil Frey Racing in the prestigious 57th ADAC Barbarossapreis race. Scheduled for September 27, this event is the ninth round of the NLS season, occurring between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grands Prix on the F1 calendar.
To handle the expenses involved, Verstappen opts for an all-inclusive package covering his car, a professional team, coaching, and petrol, showing a pragmatic approach to competing outside his familiar F1 environment.
Contrasts Between Formula 1 and NLS Racing Costs
While Formula 1 drivers rarely worry about costs like fuel and team logistics, the NLS format exposes common challenges such as paying for petrol during pit stops, an expense Verstappen now faces firsthand. For a champion used to racing at the highest level, this fresh experience presents an unusual contrast and a reminder that motorsport at every level comes with its own trials.
The reality that Max Verstappen must handle even seemingly minor details like fuel costs underscores the differences between top-tier motorsport and other series, despite his superstar status in the racing world.
The Road Ahead for Verstappen in GT Racing
Verstappen’s current participation in the NLS series is both a test of his driving adaptability and a glimpse into the broader spectrum of motorsport outside the F1 bubble. With his eyes set on competing in the ADAC Barbarossapreis later this year, securing the ‘A Permit’ is critical to expanding his racing portfolio.
As fans observe this transition, Verstappen’s journey highlights that even a champion with immense financial backing faces routine challenges in new racing environments. His progress may inspire others and adds an intriguing chapter to his already impressive career.
