Update: Verstappen's top-secret Nürburgring test cut short after supposed Ferrari trouble

15:51, 09 May

Updated: 17:08, 09 May

byToby Nixon

Max Verstappen would have preferred to keep it under wraps, but in today’s digital world, few things stay hidden. On Friday, social media revealed that the Dutchman had secretly carried out a test on the Nürburgring Nordschleife. However, it has since emerged that Verstappen was forced to abort the test.

A photo recently circulated online showing Max Verstappen's Ferrari 296 GT3 being hoisted and placed on a recovery truck. While the authenticity of the photo remains unclear, it has now been confirmed that the Verstappen.com Racing car came to a halt on the track for reasons that are still unknown. Interestingly, Max Verstappen was not driving at the time; instead, it was Chris Lulham behind the wheel when the car encountered the issue.

Verstappen holds a secret test day in Germany with fake name

Max Verstappen's GT3 team took part in a test session for the ADAC Nürburgring Long Distance Series (NLS), where they are competing this weekend. Verstappen likely chose to get behind the wheel himself to help fine-tune the Ferrari 296 GT3 ahead of the event.

Interestingly, Verstappen did not drive under his real name during the test. Instead, he used the alias of Franz Hermann. However, the Dutch flag on the car and the unmistakable Red Bull and Verstappen branding made it clear to photographers and onlookers that it was indeed the four-time Formula 1 world champion behind the wheel.

After six Formula 1 races, Verstappen currently sits third in the driver's standings on 99 points. He trains McLaren's Lando Norris, on 115 points, and Oscar Piastri, on 131 points.

Red Bull is expected to be bringing updates to the next Grand Prix in Imola, which acts as the first race of the upcoming European triple header next weekend.