Verstappen regretfully rules out iconic circuit for F1: 'Too dangerous'

Once, the Nürburgring Nordschleife was one of the most famous and feared F1 circuits ever. Also known as 'Green Hell' or 'the graveyard', the track through the woods is challenging, leaves no room for error, and before you know it, one could end up in a severe accident. The most famous example: Niki Lauda, who crashed hard and was left scarred for life after being stuck in a burning car.

For other classes and even the public (the track is occasionally open for driving), the Nordschleife is still available for racing. For Formula 1, however, never again.

When asked if the modern F1 cars will ever race on the dangerous, yet challenging circuit again, Verstappen is clear. "It's never going to happen again with the F1 cars we now have, I'm afraid," he said recently to Formula 1 Magazine

"With the speed of a GT3 car, it's okay and doable. I've seen some older footage, occasionally, including Formula 1 on the Nordschleife. One thing is for sure: it's never going to happen again. It's far too dangerous," so goes the Dutchman's verdict.

The circuit in Germany stretches over an astonishing 20 kilometers with 154 turns. For the modern - larger - cars of the royal class, it's no longer possible to race there. At least, it can be done in theory, but the danger is far too great. The Nordschleife is a closed chapter for F1, although it continues to be enjoyed in other racing classes.

Under an alias 'Franz Hermann', the Dutchman recently did a GT3 test on the track. Also at Spa-Francorchamps, the now obsolete alias (and thus Verstappen himself) was in action. Will there be more adventure in the endurance for the Dutchman? It wouldn't be a surprise. He has repeatedly expressed his ambition for endurance.