10 Big Clues Max Verstappen and Franz Hermann Are Up to Something Massive
Max Verstappen, known for his prowess in Formula 1, has ignited excitement with his ventures into endurance racing. This article delves into Verstappen’s growing interest in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans and his clandestine endeavors at the Nürburgring. From strategic alignments with racing calendars to adopting whimsical pseudonyms, Verstappen’s multifaceted racing pursuits are shaping a dynamic narrative beyond the F1 circuit.
10. Verstappen’s Previously Stated Ambitions for Le Mans and Other Endurance Events
Max Verstappen has openly expressed his desire to compete in the 24 Hours of Le Mans alongside Fernando Alonso, saying “It’s in the back of our minds. We know that we want to do it.” He’s also launching his own GT3 team in 2025 and recently participated in a “secret” test at Nürburgring, potentially for the iconic 24-Hour race there. Verstappen’s endurance racing ambitions clearly extend beyond Formula 1.
9. The Strategic Timing Between F1 and Endurance Racing Calendars
Verstappen’s “Franz Hermann” Nürburgring test comes at a telling time – in 2025, the 24 Hours of Le Mans clashes with the F1 Canadian Grand Prix, making participation impossible. However, his growing GT3 experience and stated desire to compete in the Nürburgring 24 Hours suggests he’s strategically preparing for future endurance racing opportunities when calendars align more favorably.
8. F1 Officially Recognizing the “Franz Hermann” Alias
In a humorous nod to Verstappen’s undercover antics, Formula 1 actually listed the four-time World Champion as “Franz Hermann” during Imola’s FP1 sessions following his Nurburgring exploits. This official recognition of his fake German alias suggests F1’s willingness to play along with Max’s extracurricular racing adventures, potentially opening doors for more crossover opportunities in the future.
7. The Emil Frey Racing Connection Through Thierry Vermeulen
Max Verstappen’s collaboration with Emil Frey Racing deepens through Thierry Vermeulen, who is not only a racing protege but also the son of Verstappen’s manager. Vermeulen and Verstappen.com Racing contest major GT championships together, with Verstappen guiding Vermeulen’s career and supporting sim-to-real racers like Chris Lulham.
6. The Missing Nordschleife Racing License
Verstappen recently tested a Ferrari 296 GT3 at the Nürburgring under the pseudonym “Franz Hermann,” while working toward obtaining his DMSB Permit Nordschleife. This special license is required to participate in official NLS events and the legendary 24-hour Nürburgring race. Verstappen is reportedly planning multiple visits to the circuit this year to complete the necessary requirements.
5. Christian Horner’s Revealing Comments About Verstappen’s Racing Passions
Christian Horner has openly praised Max Verstappen’s passion for all forms of racing, noting how Verstappen recently tested a Ferrari 296 GT3 at the Nürburgring under the alias “Franz Hermann.” While Horner insists Verstappen’s main focus must remain Formula 1, he admires Max’s versatility and relentless drive to explore new racing challenges.
4. The Public Exchange with Maro Engel Over Car Specifications
Verstappen recently fired back at GT driver Maro Engel, who claimed Max (under alias Franz Hermann) used modified DTM specifications during his Nordschleife test. When Engel stated the Ferrari GT3 had “less weight, more power, lower ride height,” Verstappen responded firmly at midnight: “False. Don’t spread things when you don’t know how the car was setup.”
3. Choosing a Ferrari Over His Own Team’s Aston Martin
Max Verstappen raised eyebrows by secretly testing a Ferrari GT3 at the Nürburgring under the alias “Franz Hermann,” despite his own Verstappen.com Racing team fielding Aston Martins. This unexpected preference for Ferrari, given rival offers and rumors, hints at major plans beyond current team loyalties.
2. Breaking the GT3 Lap Record at the “Green Hell”
Max Verstappen stunned the motorsport world by secretly smashing the Nürburgring Nordschleife GT3 lap record while driving a Ferrari 296 GT3 for Emil Frey Racing. Competing under the alias “Franz Hermann,” he clocked a time faster than Christian Krognes’ official 7:49.578s, fueling speculation about his next big move.
1. The Secret Nordschleife Test Under a Pseudonym
Max Verstappen recently shattered the GT3 lap record at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, using the fake name “Franz Hermann” to stay off the entry list. Driving a Ferrari 296 GT3 with Emil Frey Racing, the four-time F1 champion set an impressive time of 7:47, deliberately using what he called “as German a name as possible” to maintain a low profile before inevitably being recognized.
Conclusion:
As Max Verstappen continues to blend humor with ambition in his pursuit of endurance racing, his secret tests and strategic alliances signal a burgeoning chapter in his career. With milestones such as breaking lap records and nurturing emerging talent, Verstappen is not only expanding his horizons but also inspiring a new generation of racers. His journey beyond Formula 1 promises thrilling developments that motorsport enthusiasts eagerly anticipate.
