F1 Champion Verstappen Tests Ferrari Under Fake Name at Nürburgring

Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula One World Champion, recently tested a Ferrari 296 GT3 car at the Nürburgring Nordschleife under the pseudonym 'Franz Hermann,' a move that surprised many given his long-standing association with Red Bull Racing. Verstappen’s test was part of a calculated effort to obtain a Nordschleife permit, enabling him to compete in endurance races like the Nürburgring 24 Hours, aligning with his expressed ambition to transition into endurance racing after his F1 career. Despite using a fake name, his identity was apparent from the car’s Verstappen.com livery and his trademark helmet and race suit bearing his real name, and the session attracted significant attention from fans and media. Verstappen has openly stated his interest in racing GT3 cars, particularly at the Nürburgring, which he regards as one of his favorite circuits, and he currently balances these pursuits with his F1 commitments under contract until 2028. The test was conducted with Emil Frey Racing, whose driver Thierry Vermeulen is closely connected to Verstappen’s management, underscoring the organized nature of the outing. This episode highlights Verstappen’s intent to broaden his racing career beyond Formula 1 while maintaining his current championship campaign.