Max Verstappen, the reigning Formula 1 World Champion and remarkable talent, took advantage of a rare weekend off between the Miami and Imola Grands Prix to conduct a secret Ferrari GT3 test at the famous Nürburgring Nordschleife. Under the pseudonym Franz Hermann, Verstappen tackled the demanding 20.832-kilometer circuit, leaving fans and locals amazed as the news gradually leaked out. Although official details remain tightly guarded by Verstappen’s team, the test has sparked considerable excitement within the racing community, fueled by reports of a breathtaking 7 minute 53 second lap time during this private run.
This wasn’t just a casual spin for Verstappen; it marked his first real-life challenge on the Nordschleife in a GT3 car, a blend of high performance and endurance racing that differs significantly from Formula 1 machines. Renowned former F1 driver Timo Glock, who learned about the test through privileged sources, confirmed Verstappen’s outstanding adaptation to the circuit and vehicle. Speaking on the Backstage Boxengasse podcast, Glock revealed the anticipation that surrounded Verstappen’s appearance at the track, stating that the team overseeing his special Nürburgring permit closely monitored the sessions and quickly gathered performance data.
Glock said.
According to Glock, Verstappen’s performance was nothing short of impressive, with his first or second timed lap already described as “absolutely top notch.”
The reported lap time of 7 minutes and 53 seconds is particularly notable given the complexity and danger of the Nürburgring Nordschleife, often called the “Green Hell” for its challenging twists and length. While this time doesn’t rival the record-breaking runs of ultra-fast hypercars, which have dipped below six and a half minutes, it highlights Verstappen’s skill and quick learning curve, especially with limited prior experience on the Nordschleife in a GT3 machine.
Glock added perspective on the significance of Verstappen’s achievement, emphasizing how simulator training played a crucial role.
he explained.
The secrecy surrounding the test and the use of a pseudonym demonstrate Verstappen’s desire to approach this endeavor without the full glare of the media and public attention. Still, the leak of information has set the racing world abuzz with speculation about Verstappen’s future plans, including rumors that he might be seeking special racing licenses and branching out beyond Formula 1 in ways fans hadn’t expected.
This secret Ferrari GT3 test is more than just a curiosity; it signals Verstappen’s willingness to push his boundaries and explore new motorsport disciplines. For many, it underscores how his raw talent transcends categories, hinting at a broader career that could include GT racing or endurance events. As the motorsport community awaits official announcements or further tests, the stunning lap time at the Nürburgring remains a compelling preview of what Max Verstappen might achieve off the traditional Formula 1 stage.
