Verstappen returns to the Nordschleife after obtaining his permit

14:12, 14 Sep

byLudo van Denderen

Max Verstappen will return to the Nordschleife soon. The four-time world champion will drive again at the legendary circuit later this month.

Max Verstappen was active at the Nordschleife on Saturday, Photo: GPblog

Verstappen earned his DMSB Permit Nordschleife, which allows him to compete in the highest GT class, on Saturday.

The Dutchman completed the necessary requirements in a race in the Nordschleife Langstrecke Serie (NLS). As a 'rookie,' Verstappen was restricted to a GT4 car with limited power.

From now on, however, he can get his hands on cars with more horsepower including the Ferrari 296 GT3 of Verstappen.com Racing.

Earlier this year, the Dutchman tested this car at the 'Green Hell,' where he reportedly set a lap record. The next time he drives the circuit it is expected he will be in this car.

Verstappen returns to the Nürburgring

Verstappen did not obtain his permit to compete more often at the Nordschleife after his Formula 1 career, but to do both simultaneously.

To maintain his license, he must race at least once every two years at the circuit. If he doesn't, he will lose the permit and would have to retake the exam, and start from scratch.

This prompts the question: when will Verstappen first race in the Ferrari? Inside the paddock in Germany, there was a rumour that this would take place on 27th September. Should that not happen, 11th October is an alternative option.

Few options left before the 24 hours of Nürburgring

Ultimately, Verstappen wants to compete in the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.

This event is scheduled for in between the Miami and Canadian Grands Prix. Therefore, it will not clash with the F1 season, making Verstappen’s participation possible. His F1 team, Red Bull Racing, would also have no objections to him driving there.

It is conceivable that Verstappen will only be in action in the GT3 car for the first time from 14-17th May next year, without doing a race before.

It is much more likely that he will first drive at a shorter race, for example in the NLS, but this time in a GT3.

If that is the case, that can only happen on the aforementioned dates, as the series' calendar clashes with Formula 1 weekends until the 24-hour race.

One thing is certain. German audience won’t be waiting long to see Max Verstappen back on track.

Check out our Formula 1 paddock update here!