Max Verstappen Trades Monza Victory for Nürburgring NLS Challenge

Fresh off his Italian Grand Prix triumph at Monza, Max Verstappen is set to tackle a new challenge: the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS). The four-time world champion has long harbored a dream of competitively racing on the legendary Nordschleife, and that dream is now becoming a reality.

The Administrative Hurdle

Before Verstappen can push a GT3 car to its limits on the "Green Hell," he must first secure his DMSB Permit Nordschleife. This involves a mandatory classroom session on Friday, where he'll learn about track specifics like yellow flags, followed by an exam.

• Permit B: After passing the paperwork, Verstappen will complete the required laps for his entry-level B Permit on Saturday. He will be driving a Porsche Cayman GT4 CS, run by Lionspeed, for these initial laps.
• Permit A: If all goes according to plan, he aims to quickly upgrade to the coveted A Permit. This would allow him to race an Emil Frey Racing Ferrari 296 GT3, adorned in Red Bull colors, as early as Sunday.

Why it matters: Beyond F1's Glamour

For Verstappen, this isn't merely about adding another trophy. It's about exploring the broader world of motorsport and embracing the freedom it offers outside the confines of Formula 1.

• The Nordschleife is widely regarded as the ultimate test in racing, an "Everest of racing circuits" that demands unparalleled skill and focus.
• Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko fully supports Verstappen's venture, stating it provides an "important distraction for his well-being" at a time when the F1 car wasn't performing optimally.

This endeavor highlights Verstappen's pure passion for racing, extending beyond his F1 commitments.

A New Competitive Benchmark

Earlier this year, Verstappen unofficially set a rapid lap time on the Nordschleife in a GT car, albeit under a pseudonym during a demo run. This time, however, is different.

• He will be racing under his own name, competing directly against NLS regulars.
• The competition will be in equal machinery, offering a true test of skill against the formidable circuit.

For fans, it's a rare treat to see F1's most relentless competitor take on the world's most challenging racetrack. For Verstappen, it's another weekend of work, but in an office with 154 corners, blind crests, and unexpected challenges. The Nordschleife is about to meet Max Verstappen's relentless obsession.