While some might have expected a quiet day at the Nordschleife, the atmosphere was anything but when word got out that Max Verstappen was testing on the legendary track. Despite his efforts to go unnoticed, the Red Bull driver, disguised under the alias Franz Hermann, quickly drew attention.
Tom Coronel painted a vivid picture of the chaotic scene, describing how the circuit was swamped with fans and media, calling it a ‘complete madhouse.’ Once people realized Verstappen, an F1 World Champion, was present, it was all anyone could talk about. The excitement was palpable, with everyone eager to catch a glimpse of the Dutch racing star in action.
Verstappen’s plan was straightforward: to take advantage of his time off from Formula 1 and test the Ferrari 296 at this iconic circuit. However, his attempt to keep a low profile was short-lived. The branded gear and the car’s distinctive livery easily gave away his presence, leading to a swarm of onlookers.
Coronel explained how Verstappen was shielded from photographers and the general public, noting that they even had to escort his son, Rocco, for a private meeting with Max. It was clear that keeping the session under wraps became impossible as the Nordschleife was soon filled with journalists and fans eager for a story.
The move to test at Nordschleife was not just for spectacle; reports suggest Verstappen is eyeing participation in the GT3 series. However, there’s a hitch—he lacks the necessary permit to compete. Coronel humorously recounted the confusion, stating, ‘I participated in the race, but Franz Hermann couldn’t because he didn’t have his license yet.’
To race at Nordschleife, one needs more than just driving skill. The rules demand a DMSB permit, attainable only by completing two races totaling 14 laps in a comparable car. Despite being a seasoned champion, Verstappen will have to jump through these hoops if he wants to add GT3 races to his impressive resume.
Despite the setback, Verstappen’s test day was a success. Reports confirm his performance was outstanding, driving under the eight-minute mark—remarkable by any standard of the GT3 class.
In the end, Max Verstappen’s secret GT3 test quickly turned into a spectacle, drawing fans and media to the Nordschleife. Though his cover was blown, the buzz it created speaks volumes about his popularity and the excitement surrounding his ventures beyond Formula 1. With a keen interest in GT3, the racing world waits to see if Verstappen will secure the necessary license and make his mark in yet another racing domain.
