Max Verstappen Secures Nordschleife Category A License

Max Verstappen Earns Nordschleife Category A License

Max Verstappen has successfully obtained his Category A license for the Nordschleife, a significant achievement that opens the door for him to compete in prestigious endurance events such as the 24 Hours of Nürburgring. This comes after a challenging but ultimately successful weekend of testing, despite a mechanical issue.

Why it matters

Securing this top-tier license allows the four-time F1 world champion to expand his racing repertoire beyond Formula 1. It signifies his capability and readiness to tackle one of the world's most demanding circuits in high-level GT racing, broadening his already impressive motorsport career.

The details

• Verstappen initially secured his Category B license on Friday, enabling him to participate in Saturday's events.
• To achieve the Category A license, he needed to complete 14 laps and secure two classified results.
• Despite completing the required 14 laps, a mechanical issue with a second car he was driving prevented him from achieving both classified results.
• However, a panel granted him the Category A permit on an exceptional basis, recognizing his performance and completed laps in the #980 Porsche Cayman GT4.

Verstappen expressed his satisfaction with the process on his website, verstappen.com:

"I’m happy it all went smooth, and I got my DMSB Permit Nordschleife," he stated. "I really enjoyed myself, but that’s always the case around here. It was good to drive stints in the race with traffic, both with faster and slower cars."

He further highlighted the diverse conditions he experienced and the valuable lessons learned:

"There was also a 'code 60' race neutralisation, double waved yellows and a standard yellow flag. I drove in the wet, the dry and in mixed conditions. I’ve gained experience in where the grip is and isn’t, and completed a start procedure. It was really good to gain more experience on this circuit."

What's next

The Dutchman is expected to return to the iconic German circuit, famously nicknamed 'the green hell,' on September 27. He plans to race a Ferrari 296 GT3, showcasing his skills in a different class of machinery.