Max Verstappen has successfully obtained his A licence for the Nurburgring Nordschleife after completing the mandatory certification process at the legendary German circuit over the weekend.
The four-time F1 drivers' champion raised eyebrows when it emerged he would need to complete the full licensing procedure, including theory examinations and supervised instruction laps. Many questioned why a driver of his calibre required such formalities for a track aptly dubbed the green hell.
Verstappen approached the requirements without complaint, earning widespread praise from German motorsport circles for his professional attitude.
The Red Bull driver began proceedings on Friday with written theory tests before taking to the circuit behind an instructor who demonstrated the optimal racing lines around the demanding 20.8-kilometre layout.
His natural pace shone through immediately. Despite driving a reduced-specification Porsche with 125bhp less power than the class leaders, Verstappen finished sixth in wet conditions during Saturday's session. His lap times were just fifteen seconds adrift of the Cup 3 class winner, a remarkable showing in challenging circumstances.
The licensing requirements stipulated fourteen laps across two different vehicles, but technical problems with the sister car prevented the Dutchman from completing the full programme as planned. He managed fourteen laps in the 980 Porsche Cayman before awaiting the decision of the licensing committee.
Officials ultimately awarded Verstappen his category A licence, citing his demonstrated competence in varying weather conditions and under yellow flag procedures.
The certification unlocks significant opportunities for the Red Bull driver on the Nordschleife. He can now compete in GT3 machinery at the circuit, with plans already taking shape for his next appearance.
Verstappen is targeting the NLS race on 27th September, where he will race a Ferrari GT3 for Verstappen.com Racing.
The timing fits neatly between the Azerbaijan and Singapore Grand Prix weekends, highlighting the 27-year-old's growing commitment to endurance racing pursuits.
The ultimate prize remains the 24 Hours of Nurburgring, with his newly-acquired licence removing the final barrier to participation in the prestigious event.
Also interesting:
Join RacingNews365's Ian Parkes, Sam Coop and Nick Golding, as they look back on the Italian Grand Prix! Max Verstappen's dominant win is a lead discussion, as is whether McLaren has set a precedent with its controversial team orders.
Rather watch the podcast? Then click here!
Most read
In this article
Join the conversation!