Verstappen reveals short-term NLS plans and Nurburgring 24h intentions

The Dutchman is coming off a difficult qualifying session in Suzuka, having been knocked out in Q2 by rookie Arvid Lindblad, while team-mate Isack Hadjar progressed to Q3.

Following Japan, Formula 1 is set to enter a forced break after the cancellation of the Saudi Arabian and Bahrain Grands Prix, which were due to fill the April calendar, leaving Verstappen with potential room to take part in further races in the German series.

Asked whether he plans to take part in NLS3, the third round of the championship scheduled for April 11, the Dutchman dismissed the possibility: "No, NLS3 not, because my team is racing in Paul Ricard, so we cannot do that."

Asked whether he will at least take part in the Nürburgring 24h qualifiers, scheduled for May 24-25, the Dutchman added: "Qualifiers at the moment is only Lucas (Auer) in the car, so I would feel a bit sorry for him if he has to do everything by himself. Daniel (Juncadella) and Jules (Gounon) cannot do it, so it would make sense if I could do it."

Following his 11th-place result in qualifying at the Japanese Grand Prix, the Red Bull Racing driver admitted he was beyond being frustrated.

Looking ahead, he added that he has 'a lot of stuff to figure out' about 'life', confirming that it is related to the current F1 regulations.