Max Verstappen Nurburgring debut: A Different Kind of Race Weekend

It was a race weekend unlike any other for Max Verstappen, as the four-time Formula 1 world champion swapped his Red Bull F1 car for a Porsche Cayman GT4 CS in the ADAC Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS). His much-anticipated debut at the Nürburgring did not disappoint, drawing tens of thousands of spectators and showcasing Verstappen’s commitment to broadening his racing horizons.

Securing the B-Permit

Before Verstappen could hit the track, he first had to pass the official requirements for a B-Permit on Friday. The process included both a written exam and a driving test, where Verstappen completed laps behind and in front of a certified instructor. Unsurprisingly, the Dutchman passed with ease, clearing the way for his racing debut on the legendary “Green Hell.”

Verstappen’s Handicapped Porsche Cayman

While Verstappen’s driving skills are unquestioned, his car came with significant handicaps. His Porsche Cayman GT4 CS was downgraded from 425 horsepower at 1,315 kg to just 300 horsepower at 1,350 kg. This adjustment was required to fit within the Cup 3 Class regulations of 4.2 kg per horsepower.

That meant Verstappen was racing against cars with 130 more horsepower and 150 kg less weight—a huge disadvantage that would become obvious once the race began.

Qualifying at the Nurburgring

Saturday’s qualifying session kicked off at 8 a.m. under damp conditions. Verstappen managed four laps, setting a best time of 10:21.591 as the track dried. Despite the car’s limitations, he placed sixth in his class and 27th overall out of 112 cars. Among Cup 3 guest drivers, he was the fastest—a strong performance that highlighted his adaptability.

Race Day at the Nurburgring

With 112 cars spread across 34 classes, the four-hour endurance race at the Nürburgring was a challenge for even seasoned drivers. Verstappen started in the #980 Porsche from the second group and was quickly outpaced by rivals due to his car’s lack of power. Yet, true to form, he fought hard and settled into a strong rhythm.

Midway through the race, Verstappen encountered a brief brake issue that forced an unscheduled pit stop, costing him a few minutes. Still, he returned to the track and continued pushing, completing a 14-lap stint with a best lap of 9:01.41 and an average of 9:34.12. By the time he handed the car over to teammate Chris Lulhalm, Verstappen was running 8th in class and 28th overall.

The A-Permit Challenge

To qualify for an A-Permit—required for GT3 competition—Verstappen needed to complete 14 penalty-free laps in two different cars. While he achieved this in the Porsche Cayman, his second car, the #89 Lionspeed GP entry, suffered technical problems and only managed an out lap right at the end. Fortunately, this was enough to classify Verstappen as a driver and fulfill the A-Permit requirements.

What’s Next for Verstappen?

With the A-Permit secured, Verstappen is now eligible to race GT3 machinery at the Nürburgring. Reports suggest he will likely make his GT3 debut with Emil Frey Racing at the end of the month.

The weekend wasn’t about results or lap times—it was about process, discipline, and progression. Verstappen impressed many by not only adapting quickly but also by showing genuine respect for the permit system.

And he wasn’t the only attraction: organizers estimated 50,000 fans attended the event, with two extra grandstands opened to accommodate the crowd.

Final Thoughts

The Max Verstappen Nurburgring debut was a statement of intent. While his detuned Cayman limited outright performance, his commitment and speed were unmistakable. Fans can now look forward to seeing the F1 champion return in a GT3 car, where the playing field will be much more level—and the racing even more thrilling.

For now, Verstappen returns to his “day job” as Red Bull Racing’s F1 superstar. But one thing is clear: his adventures in endurance racing have only just begun.

👉 What did you think of Max Verstappen’s Nurburgring debut? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

❓ Max Verstappen Nurburgring FAQs

Q: Why did Max Verstappen race at the Nurburgring?

A: Verstappen took part in the ADAC NLS endurance race at the Nürburgring to gain experience in GT racing and secure the permits required to compete in higher classes like GT3.

Q: What car did Max Verstappen drive at the Nurburgring?

A: Verstappen raced a Porsche Cayman GT4 CS, heavily de-tuned due to his B-Permit status, making his performance even more impressive.

Q: Did Max Verstappen win his Nurburgring debut?

A: Winning wasn’t the goal. His car was underpowered compared to the rest of his class, but Verstappen still finished 8th in his category and 28th overall.

Q: What permit did Verstappen earn from racing at the Nurburgring?

A: By completing 14 clean laps in two cars, Verstappen secured his A-Permit, which now allows him to race GT3 cars at the Nürburgring.

Q: Will Verstappen return to the Nurburgring?

A: Yes, Verstappen is expected to make his GT3 debut later this month with Emil Frey Racing, where he will be much more competitive.