From F1 to the Nordschleife Challenge

Max Verstappen, four-time world champion and one of the youngest drivers to dominate Formula 1, shows that adrenaline runs through his veins on any track. After his triumph in Azerbaijan, where he achieved his sixth Grand Chelem, he swaps his Red Bull single-seater for a Ferrari 296 GT3 to debut in the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS). With 22 kilometers and 176 corners, the Nordschleife spares no mistakes. Verstappen passed all requirements for a GT3 license, initially driving a Porsche Cayman 718 GT4 to qualify. His move into endurance racing proves that his passion goes beyond Formula 1—he races purely for love of the sport.

The Driver Who Challenges the System

Despite being F1’s dominant figure, Verstappen doesn’t blindly accept Liberty Media’s regulations or the FIA’s communication restrictions. His strong personality, inherited from his father Jos, and his old-school karting background made him resilient—able to handle criticism while keeping his focus on what he loves: racing. Recent fatherhood with Kelly Piquet and family life have reshaped his priorities, showing that there’s more to life than chasing Grand Prix victories.

Endurance: Passion and Preparation

Verstappen’s move into endurance isn’t a whim; it’s a strategic pursuit. Already experienced at Nürburgring in GT4, he now pilots a 600-hp Ferrari 296 GT3 with Emil Frey Racing. His ultimate goal? The legendary 24 Hours of Nürburgring—a test demanding focus, stamina, and strategy, perfectly suited to his complete-driver profile. Inspired by Fernando Alonso, who excelled in endurance racing, Verstappen is chasing a purer, more human form of motorsport where every lap is a test of skill and heart.

Looking Beyond F1

With a Red Bull contract through 2028, Verstappen is already considering a future where F1 might not be the centerpiece. His focus on endurance and iconic races like Nürburgring shows that, like the legends of the past, he doesn’t need titles to feel the thrill of racing. At 28, with 67 wins, 120 podiums, and 35 fastest laps, Verstappen is preparing for the next chapter: racing for pure passion, keeping the spirit of motorsport alive.