Reigning F1 champion Verstappen shines in Nürburgring's 'Green Hell'

The reigning Formula 1 World Champion initially tested the Nordschleife in secret, competing under the pseudonym Franz Hermann to avoid a media and fan frenzy. Driving for the Emil Frey Racing team, the Dutchman impressed as he tackled the fearsome circuit for the very first time.

His first competitive appearance came this past weekend. After passing both practical and theoretical exams on Friday, Verstappen took part in his maiden qualifying session and lined up for his first official race the next day.

In tricky, rain-soaked qualifying conditions, Verstappen stunned the Nordschleife community with a standout performance. He then recorded the fastest lap of the race in his category by a margin of 20 seconds, though there was a small caveat: track conditions improved after he stepped out of the car.

Second-placed finisher Benny Leuchter praised the F1 star’s effort: “Fantastic to have such an extraordinary driver here in the Green Hell.

By securing his special Nordschleife permit, Verstappen is now eligible to compete in the famed 24 Hours of Nürburgring—a race the Dutchman has previously “won” in a simulator. This marks his first official step into a racing series outside Formula 1, something the Red Bull Racing driver has long expressed interest in pursuing.

Should he decide to enter the 2026 edition of the endurance classic, it will not clash with his Formula 1 commitments: the Nürburgring 24 Hours does not overlap with any Grand Prix weekend.