Verstappen Sets Controversial Lap Record at Nürburgring Nordschleife
Imola, Italy – Max Verstappen has ignited a firestorm in the motorsports world following reports that he set a Nürburgring Nordschleife lap record while testing a Ferrari 296 GT3. The record lap, achieved a week prior to the announcement, has been met with skepticism from both fans and competitors.
Despite initial disbelief regarding Verstappen’s immediate dominance over seasoned Nürburgring veterans, the Formula 1 star insisted that he adhered to the required Balance of Performance (BoP) settings during his test. Reported at 7 minutes 49.578 seconds, an eyewitness suggested that Verstappen’s overtaking maneuver at Hatzenbach was “almost hard to believe” for its audacity.
Critics voiced concerns on social media, including DTM driver Maro Engel, who questioned the car’s setup, alleging it deviated from official race conditions. Verstappen countered, stating, “False. Don’t spread things when you don’t know how the car was set up.” Engel later acknowledged that his sources may have been misinformed.
Verstappen, who had never driven the Nordschleife prior to this test, described the experience as an opportunity to learn, despite feeling criticized by peers. “I went there to have fun and just drive my laps,” he said, noting he was surprised by the bitterness of some reactions.
Emil Frey Racing’s technical director, Jurg Flach, confirmed that Verstappen used the exact BoP settings mandated for the NLS races, with a fuel load of approximately 60-70 kilograms, further supporting Verstappen’s claims.
As discussions regarding his record intensity gesture, Verstappen has expressed interest in competing in the Nürburgring 24 Hours, though he must first secure a racing permit, which typically requires prior participation in two lower-class races.
Red Bull team principal Christian Horner emphasized the importance of Verstappen focusing on his Formula 1 commitments, while Verstappen reiterated, “Leaving Red Bull for 2026 is not my intention at the moment.”
The motorsports community watches closely as Verstappen navigates the competitive landscape, with the potential for further back-and-forth among rivals regarding his record.
