Italian media reacts to 'dominant' Max Verstappen Ferrari GT3 victory

Max Verstappen's debut victory at the Nordschleife has not gone unnoticed in Italy, particularly given his feat was achieved behind the wheel of a Ferrari 296 GT3. 

The Italian press was quick to celebrate the Dutchman's impressive performance, fuelling conversation about whether a switch to the Scuderia could even be made one day in Formula 1.

A 'Verstappen show' is how Corriere dello Sport described his latest exploit, with the Italian publication having written: "Just a short while ago, the idea of Verstappen driving a Ferrari seemed absurd. 

"At least, in Formula 1 it remains so, but at the Nordschleife, it became a reality." 

The publication went on to highlight how Verstappen once more expressed his passion for motorsport in general, not just F1. 

Verstappen and team-mate Chris Lulham won emphatically by over 20 seconds, in a Ferrari showcasing a Red Bull livery.

The four-time world champion's GT3 debut was exceptional, although his focus will have instantly switched to the upcoming Singapore Grand Prix and his growing title chances.

Also in Italian media, Corriere della Sera discussed Verstappen's staggering GT3 display, and wrote: "What an extraordinarily strong debut for Verstappen. 

"It's remarkable to see what he accomplished during his official debut—and in a Ferrari, no less. His fervour for motorsport saw him again dominating the GT class."

The newspaper later added: "Not only did Verstappen dominate; within a few laps, he had already pulled ahead by 20 seconds from the runner-up." 

It then continued to the possibility of the Red Bull driver perhaps making the switch to red in F1, and whether driving a Ferrari in GT racing could open the door to a future move.

"Who knows, perhaps this might one day pave the way for Verstappen's move to Ferrari in Formula 1?" questioned the Italian publication.