Max Verstappen, the four-time Formula 1 World Champion, has dismissed any possibility of racing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife circuit in Formula 1 again, citing safety concerns. While he has recently been exploring the Nordschleife under the pseudonym ‘Franz Hermann,’ Verstappen insists that the track is far too dangerous for current F1 cars.
Verstappen Declares Nordschleife Unsafe for Modern F1 Racing
The Nürburgring Nordschleife has a deep history in Formula 1, dating back to the sport’s first season in 1950. However, its last F1 race occurred in 1976, earning the nickname ‘the Green Hell’ from three-time World Champion Sir Jackie Stewart due to its extreme difficulty and danger. Since then, F1 action in Germany has shifted to the shorter, modern GP-Strecke layout of the Nürburgring.
Recently, Verstappen tested a Ferrari 296 GT3 car at the Nordschleife under the alias ‘Franz Hermann,’ a name he has adopted for some private and virtual racing appearances, including at Spa-Francorchamps. This persona has even been used to launch branded scale model cars set for release in November 2025.
In a discussion with Formule 1 Magazine, Verstappen was asked if he would consider returning to the Nordschleife with a Formula 1 car. He responded matter-of-factly that it is not feasible with modern F1 machinery, while GT3 cars remain manageable on the circuit. Reflecting on historical footage of F1 races at the Nordschleife, he said:
One thing is for sure: F1 there, that will never happen again. Far too dangerous.
—Max Verstappen, Formula 1 World Champion
Historical and Recent German Grand Prix Context
Verstappen’s comments come amid ongoing discussions about Formula 1’s use of circuits, including those with storied pasts. He won the last German Grand Prix held at Hockenheimring in 2019, while the Nürburgring hosted the one-off Eifel Grand Prix in 2020 due to calendar changes brought on by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Throughout his career, Verstappen has solidified his reputation as one of Formula 1’s top drivers, securing four consecutive World Championships since 2021. As the 2025 season unfolds, he remains in contention for a fifth title, currently placed third in the championship standings after ten rounds and trailing leader Oscar Piastri by 43 points.
Implications of Verstappen’s View on F1 Safety and Circuit Choices
Verstappen’s firm stance on the Nordschleife highlights the evolving balance between racing heritage and modern safety standards in Formula 1. Despite the circuit’s legendary status, its unpredictable nature and length pose risks that current F1 cars and race regulations cannot safely accommodate. This reinforces ongoing challenges in incorporating classic circuits into today’s F1 calendar, where driver safety is paramount.
His perspective signals that while historic racetracks continue to hold appeal for fans and drivers alike, Formula 1 is unlikely to return to certain venues unless substantial safety adaptations are made. As the sport progresses, focus remains on circuits that can meet the demanding technical and safety requirements of modern Formula 1 racing.