Max Verstappen, the Red Bull Formula 1 driver, participated in a surprising test session at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, using the alias “Franz Hermann.” Despite the attempt at anonymity, spectators quickly identified Verstappen due to the recognizable Verstappen.com branding on the car, along with his signature helmet and race suit that bore his name.
According to The Mirror, Verstappen drove a Ferrari 296 GT3 during the official test and setup session for the upcoming third round of the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie (NLS). He joined Emil Frey Racing for a few laps on the renowned circuit. Uncharacteristically, Verstappen opted for a public test environment rather than his usual private sessions. His use of a pseudonym, paired with the Dutch flag on the car, added to the intrigue of the occasion.
Now 27, Verstappen has clinched the Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship four times, winning back-to-back titles from 2021 through 2024. However, in the current F1 season, he trails behind Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in the standings, holding third place. He recently finished fourth at the Miami Grand Prix.
Verstappen’s participation in the GT3 test was not entirely unexpected, as he previously expressed interest in driving at the Nürburgring in a GT3 vehicle. He once remarked that the track is one of his favorites and shared hopes of competing there with a proper GT3 car in the near future.
He is set to return to Formula 1 competition at the upcoming Emilia Romagna Grand Prix next weekend. Despite the alias and change in racing series, Verstappen’s appearance at the Nürburgring has only further demonstrated his enthusiasm for motorsport in all its forms.
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