Max Verstappen names the track 'far too dangerous' to return to F1 calendar
One of Max Verstappen's favourite tracks has been absent from F1 since 1976.
Max Verstappen has admitted that one of his favourite tracks is simply 'too dangerous' to return to the F1 calendar. The reigning world champion is a huge fan of the Nurburgring Nordschleife, a legendary circuit spanning nearly 13 miles in length. Nicknamed the Green Hell, it has gained a formidable reputation for its intimidating layout and unforgiving nature.
The circuit was a regular feature on the F1 calendar until 1976, after which it was removed due to safety concerns. It came after Niki Lauda was left seriously burned in a fiery crash at the Bergwerk corner, a fast left kink. However, the track remains a firm favourite among racing enthusiasts given its fierce notoriety.
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Verstappen has made no secret of his love for the Nordschleife, having recently taken part in a private test at the circuit under the pseudonym Franz Hermann. However, he knows there is too much danger involved for a return to F1.
Speaking to Formule 1 Magazine, the Dutchman said: "That’s really not going to happen with the Formula One cars we have now, I’m afraid.
"With GT3 speed it is okay and still doable. I have seen old footage now and then, also of Formula One on the Nordschleife. One thing is for sure: F1 there, that will never happen again. Far too dangerous."
During his recent private test, Verstappen stepped behind the wheel of a Ferrari 296 GT3 at the legendary circuit. He ended up setting a lap record, turning heads with an immense display of skill and bravery in equal measure.
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However, some were left unconvinced by the legitimacy of Verstappen’s record. Maro Engel, who currently holds the Nordschleife record for road-legal cars, was quick to raise his concerns on social media.
He wrote: "Few facts to Franz Hermann GT3 Nordschleife Test: car was run in DTM spec BOP (less weight, more power, lower ride height than NLS BOP). Laptime: 7:48. Still impressive for a first visit to the Green Hell. Would be cool to see Franz compete."
Engel's comments sparked a frosty response from Verstappen, who replied: "False. Don‘t spread things when you don’t know how the car was set up and our engine settings. Why would I join a NLS track day with the wrong BOP. Have a good one tomorrow."
It led to Engel tracking back and eating his words, saying: "Seems like paddock chat was incorrect then. You are clearly in a better position to tell us what you ran. Thanks and the same to you."
