Max Verstappen goes undercover for ‘secret’ Ferrari te…read more

Max Verstappen goes undercover for ‘secret’ Ferrari te…read more

Max Verstappen Spotted Testing Ferrari GT3 at Nordschleife Undercover – Could a Real-World NLS Debut Be Near?

In an unexpected turn of events, reigning Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen was recently seen testing a Ferrari 296 GT3 at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit. The test, which took place on Friday, was part of an official GT3 testing session for the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS) endurance championship. While Verstappen’s presence at such a session might seem like headline news, the Dutch driver attempted to keep his participation under wraps—using the pseudonym “Franz Hermann” to conceal his identity.

Despite his efforts to fly under the radar, it wasn’t long before eagle-eyed observers noticed something unusual. According to a report by Auto Motor und Sport, Verstappen’s actual name was clearly visible on both his helmet and racing overalls. This all but confirmed that the Red Bull Racing driver was indeed behind the wheel of the powerful 600-horsepower Ferrari 296 GT3.

The test was held in tight secrecy, with strict measures implemented to ensure the privacy and security of the triple world champion. No external photographers were allowed access to the Ferrari garage, and Verstappen was accompanied by his personal security detail throughout the event. These steps were evidently aimed at preventing the news from leaking prematurely, possibly due to contractual sensitivities or simply to avoid speculation.

What adds an even more intriguing layer to this story is the location of the test—the Nordschleife, often referred to as “The Green Hell.” This 20.8 km circuit is one of the most demanding and dangerous tracks in the world, and it has been the stage for some of motorsport’s most grueling endurance races. Verstappen has previously shown a keen interest in the Nordschleife, having competed in virtual NLS events. However, this physical test drive suggests his ambitions may be shifting from the digital to the real world.

Speculation is now mounting that Verstappen may be looking to participate in an official NLS event, possibly even the iconic 24 Hours of Nürburgring. Reports indicate that Verstappen is in the process of obtaining the special Nordschleife racing permit required for professional drivers who wish to race competitively on the circuit. This specific license is necessary due to the extreme nature of the track and ensures that only experienced drivers can participate.

Should Verstappen acquire the permit, it would open the door for him to enter various NLS races, including multi-hour endurance events and perhaps even the prestigious 24-hour race. Such a move would mark a significant crossover from Formula 1 to GT and endurance racing for the Dutch driver, at least on a part-time or extracurricular basis.

While there’s been no official confirmation yet from Verstappen or Red Bull Racing about his long-term intentions, his recent activities at the Nürburgring are fueling widespread speculation. The fact that he chose a Ferrari for the test is also intriguing, considering the long-standing rivalry between Red Bull and Ferrari in Formula 1. Whether this was simply a convenient arrangement for the test or a glimpse of something more remains to be seen.

What’s clear, however, is that Max Verstappen continues to push boundaries—not just in Formula 1, but in motorsport as a whole. As fans and analysts await further developments, one thing is certain: the idea of Verstappen tackling the Nordschleife in a GT3 Ferrari has added yet another fascinating chapter to the career of one of racing’s modern legends.