Max Verstappen Pursues Endurance Racing Goals
Max Verstappen has made significant strides toward his ambition of competing in the Le Mans 24 Hours and potentially the Nürburgring 24 Hours, following a recent GT3 test with Emil Frey Racing at the Nürburgring Nordschleife.
Verstappen, who drove under the alias "Franz Hermann," secured a specific FIA license required for these endurance events. Just two weeks prior to the F1 Spanish Grand Prix, he confirmed to media that he successfully applied for the license, stating, “It’s super easy. It’s just a form. You fill it out, you pay, and a week later you get a response.” He was awarded a platinum classification, the highest level granted by the FIA, mainly due to his Formula 1 superlicence.
Technical Insights into the Licensing System
FIA’s licensing structure aims to ensure competitive fairness across various racing categories, especially in endurance events. Drivers with a platinum license can participate in prestigious races such as Le Mans, the 24 Hours of Daytona, and the 24 Hours of Spa. Currently, only six Formula 1 drivers hold platinum licenses, including Verstappen, Fernando Alonso, and Lando Norris.
While the Nürburgring 24 Hours does not conflict with the Formula 1 calendar this year, Verstappen must still complete the required preparation events, including participation in two Nürburgring Langstrecken-Series races. Time constraints preclude him from fulfilling these requirements this season.
Future Races and Team Discussions
Red Bull Racing Team Principal Christian Horner acknowledged Verstappen’s enthusiasm for motorsport beyond F1 but stressed, “the focus has to remain on his main job.” He clarified that Verstappen would not skip any Grand Prix to pursue other races.
Helmut Marko, Red Bull’s driver advisor, indicated that while F1 remains the priority, “opportunities will arise in the fall.” He noted that Verstappen’s willingness to explore these options is apparent, though any endeavors would require team approval.
Familial Aspirations: Racing with Jos Verstappen
Verstappen has expressed interest in competing alongside his father, Jos, at Le Mans. Jos, a former F1 driver, currently holds a gold license due to inactivity. He remarked, “I’m way too slow for him,” casting doubt on the feasibility of such a pairing in the near future.
Should they compete, the Verstappens could theoretically team up in the LMP2 class, as entries in the Hypercar class are reserved for established manufacturer teams.
Conclusion
With the FIA platinum license secured, Max Verstappen is positioned to pursue iconic endurance racing events, even as he maintains his focus on his Formula 1 career. Team dynamics and existing commitments may delay these ambitions, but Marko’s comments suggest that Verstappen’s aspirations for endurance racing are being acknowledged and considered within Red Bull Racing’s framework.
