Formula 1 champion Max Verstappen has taken the motorsport world by surprise with his latest foray beyond the F1 grid. On May 9, 2025, Verstappen quietly participated in a GT3 test session at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, driving a Ferrari 296 GT3 for Emil Frey Racing — under the pseudonym “Franz Hermann.” Now, the Red Bull driver has confirmed his involvement and expressed plans to participate in more GT3 events, sparking both excitement among fans and a degree of unease within the Red Bull camp.
A Secret Session with a Bold Statement
The test, held in private to avoid media attention, was part of Verstappen’s preparation to earn the DMSB Permit Nordschleife — a prerequisite to compete in the famed Nürburgring 24 Hours. It also served as valuable development time for his team’s GT3 program. The car he drove bore the colors of Verstappen.com Racing, his own racing outfit, which competes in series such as the GT World Challenge Europe and the DTM.
Despite efforts to remain anonymous, Verstappen was recognized by eagle-eyed observers thanks to his distinctive helmet and racing suit. The test ended prematurely due to technical issues with the Ferrari, which was later seen being transported away by a recovery vehicle. The cause remains unknown, but Verstappen downplayed the incident, calling the session “a valuable step” and reiterating his love for the Nordschleife — a circuit he described as “one of my absolute favourites.”
Red Bull Surprised — Horner Suspected Something
Verstappen’s low-profile GT3 outing came just days after a disappointing fourth-place finish in Miami, adding fuel to speculation about his mindset and long-term direction. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner, speaking to Goodwood, admitted he had suspected Verstappen “was up to something” during the break between the Miami and Emilia Romagna Grands Prix.
“Max loves racing — all forms of it,” Horner said. “But we need to make sure his focus stays on Formula 1. His contract runs through 2028, and we’re counting on him. That said, we understand his passion.”
Red Bull’s performance dip in 2025 — with only one win for Verstappen in six races — has increased scrutiny around the team. As Verstappen trails McLaren drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in the championship, any perceived distraction is raising eyebrows within the paddock.
More Than Just a Hobby
Verstappen’s interest in GT3 racing is far from casual. He’s actively building Verstappen.com Racing into a serious contender, aiming to expand the team to field multiple GT3 cars by the end of the year. He’s also closely involved in mentoring up-and-coming drivers like Thierry Vermeulen, the son of his manager, who races for Emil Frey.
“We’ll start in GT3 and see where the ship runs aground,” Verstappen previously said of his ambitions beyond F1.
His long-term vision includes developing a multi-discipline racing outfit — potentially laying the foundation for a post-F1 career in endurance racing.
Fan Reactions and Future Implications
Fans on social media, especially on platform X, praised Verstappen’s versatility and dedication, with many calling him “a true racer” and applauding his desire to challenge himself outside of Formula 1. Others speculated about a future transition into endurance racing, particularly as Verstappen inches closer to legendary circuits like the Nürburgring.
While Red Bull focuses on upgrades ahead of the upcoming Imola Grand Prix, Verstappen’s GT3 excursion serves as both a reflection of his broader ambitions and a subtle reminder of the challenges in keeping elite athletes fully engaged with a single discipline.
As the 2025 season heats up, Verstappen’s side projects are making headlines — not just for what they mean now, but for what they may signal about the road ahead.
