Max Verstappen Conquers Nürburgring: F1 Champion Dominates Green Hell

Max Verstappen Makes Splash at Legendary “Green Hell” Nordschleife

Formula 1 World Champion Max Verstappen has been warmly welcomed by the Nürburgring Endurance Series after taking his first professional drive at the notorious German circuit.

The Dutch racing superstar initially tested the Nordschleife in secret, using the fake name “Franz Hermann” to avoid being mobbed by fans and media.

He finally made his official debut this past weekend.

After passing both practical and theoretical exams on Friday, Verstappen earned his A-license—the special permit needed to race on the challenging 12.9-mile track nicknamed the “Green Hell.”

What happened next surprised even the veterans.

In rain-soaked qualifying conditions that would terrify most rookie drivers, Verstappen showed why he’s considered one of racing’s greatest talents. He then recorded the fastest lap in his category during the race, beating the competition by a whopping 20 seconds.

There was a small asterisk: track conditions did improve after he stepped out of the car.

Second-place finisher Benny Leuchter couldn’t hide his admiration for the F1 star.

“Fantastic to have such an extraordinary driver here in the Green Hell,” Leuchter said. “I met Max on the track once today and I hope we’ll do it again in the future. I think as a pure racer he must have loved this race today, the Nordschleife in the rain is simply incredible!”

Verstappen drove for the Emil Frey Racing team, impressing everyone with how quickly he adapted to the fearsome circuit—widely considered the most difficult and dangerous in motorsport.

What this means for Verstappen’s future

By securing his special Nordschleife permit, Verstappen can now compete in the famous 24 Hours of Nürburgring endurance race.

Interestingly, he’s already “won” this race—but only in a simulator.

This marks Verstappen’s first official step into racing outside Formula 1, something he’s talked about wanting to do for years.

If he decides to enter the 2026 edition of the grueling day-long race, he won’t have to worry about scheduling conflicts. The Nürburgring 24 Hours doesn’t overlap with any F1 Grand Prix weekend that year.

For racing fans, the prospect of seeing the three-time world champion tackle one of motorsport’s most iconic challenges is an exciting possibility.