Max Verstappen has disclosed his ambitions to participate in a racing series beyond Formula 1 in the near future. Last month, the four-time world champion appeared driving a sports car at the Nürburgring, using the pseudonym ‘Franz Hermann’ during a test session.
He plans to officially race on the Nürburgring’s Nordschleife layout to secure a permit required for proper competition on the circuit. This step is a prerequisite to gaining full approval to compete there in the future.
I want to get my license (Nordschleife permit), so I need to do a race in a slower car so I’m planning on that,
Verstappen shared in a recently published interview.
Despite his success, Verstappen now trails the championship leader by 69 points after a disappointing finish at the British Grand Prix, dimming his hopes to claim a fifth consecutive title.
The Champion Opens Up on Off-Track Activities and Priorities
Verstappen explained that the use of a fake name at the Nürburgring was intended to keep his appearance low-profile, avoiding a large crowd that would have gathered had his presence been publicized. He sees his engagements outside F1 as a way to maintain his enthusiasm and prolong his involvement in the premier racing series.
The fake name [Hermann] was because I wouldn’t be on the entry list. People would have known way far in advance and there would be way more people there. What I’m doing outside F1 makes me stay around a bit longer in F1. I’m trying to make it work and keep it fun.
—Max Verstappen
The Dutch driver emphasized that his projects beyond Formula 1 bring a different kind of relaxation, although his competitive drive remains intense, describing these pursuits as something he genuinely enjoys while balancing his professional life.
When you do things outside of F1, it’s more relaxed, which doesn’t mean it’s less professional and my desire to win is the same. It’s something I really enjoy exploring. It’s important to enjoy my time. Time passes so quickly and I want to look back and be around for my family.
—Max Verstappen
Verstappen also touched on avoiding media events related to the new F1 film promotion, stating that authenticity is central to who he is and expressing discomfort with public appearances that require forced social interaction.
I prefer to hang out with my friends and spend time with my little family. I also have a lot of other projects going on outside of F1. So any extra work like red carpets is not what I want to do. I’m at a stage of my career where I’ve achieved so much professionally.
—Max Verstappen
Context and Future Implications for Verstappen’s Career
As Verstappen explores racing formats outside the F1 spotlight, his decision to obtain the Nordschleife permit and expand his activities reflects a desire to diversify his racing experience. This move could provide him with new challenges and help sustain his competitive focus amid diminishing title prospects in Formula 1.
Given his current position in the championship and the growing gap to the leader, Verstappen’s off-track pursuits might also be part of a broader strategy to stay motivated and remain engaged in motorsport beyond the traditional F1 calendar. His emphasis on enjoying time with family and friends suggests a more balanced approach to his career at this stage.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Verstappen’s plans unfold outside Formula 1 and whether these ventures influence his performance should he continue to compete at the highest level in the future.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Who is Max Verstappen’s baby daughter?
A. Max Verstappen has become a father! The 27-year-old Formula One driver and his girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, have their first child, a daughter called Lily. They shared this joyful announcement together on Instagram.
Q. Is Penelope not Max Verstappen’s daughter?
A. Kelly Piquet, who is the daughter of ex-world champion Nelson Piquet, has a daughter named Penelope with former F1 driver Daniil Kvyat. Verstappen has developed a strong bond with Penelope. He recently mentioned this bond when asked if fatherhood affects his racing performance.
Q. Who is Max Verstappen’s girlfriend’s baby daddy?
A. Before she started dating Verstappen, she was involved with another Formula 1 driver, Daniil Kvyat. Together, they had a daughter in 2019. Piquet and Verstappen later shared the news that their first child, a daughter named Lily, was born on May 2. “Welcome to the world, sweet Lily.”
Q. Does Max Verstappen support LGBT?
A. Max expressed his views respectfully, indicating support for the LGBTQ+ community. However, he observed that every June, it seems more like a campaign rather than a movement. Eliza Burnett commented that this was a considerate way of expressing it.