Four-time world champion Max Verstappen will be absent from the upcoming race as he focused on obtaining a racing permit during F1’s recent free weekend ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. The Max Verstappen race absence comes as he pursued the DMSB Permit A license, allowing him to compete in GT3-class vehicles at the Nurburgring endurance series.
Verstappen’s Decision to Pursue Racing License at Nurburgring
While most drivers used the break in Formula 1’s grueling 24-race calendar to rest, Verstappen chose to make his debut in another racing series instead. After a dominant win at Monza and fulfilling obligations for a Pirelli tire test in Italy, he traveled to Germany to prepare for competition on the challenging Nordschleife track. Red Bull supported Verstappen’s plan to earn the Nurburgring’s DMSB Permit A, required for competing in powerful GT3 category cars.
Obtaining the DMSB Permit A and Its Implications
On September 12, Verstappen completed a theory examination that qualified him to participate in the seventh round of the Nurburgring Langstrecken Series (NLS) held the following day. Although initially he did not meet all the standard prerequisites, the four-time champion was granted the racing permit, which now enables him to drive GT3 cars in future events.
Securing the DMSB Permit A means Verstappen will skip the NLS8 race on September 14. His absence disappointed many fans who followed his Nurburgring performance both in person and via the live stream, which attracted approximately 1.3 million YouTube viewers thanks to his participation. With the permit obtained, Verstappen is eligible to compete in the upcoming ninth round of the NLS on September 26-27, coinciding with the next break in the F1 calendar before the Singapore Grand Prix.
Upcoming Opportunities and Broader Context for Verstappen
Verstappen’s move to participate in endurance racing at the Nordschleife highlights his growing involvement outside of Formula 1, supported by Red Bull’s approval. This strategic step not only diversifies his racing portfolio but also prepares him for future GT3 competitions. Fans and observers will closely watch how this experience shapes his career trajectory, especially with his confirmed absence from the imminent endurance race.
