Overview

• Max Verstappen secretly tested a Ferrari 296 GT3 at the Nürburgring Nordschleife under the alias 'Franz Hermann,' a session intended to remain confidential but later exposed by Auto Motor und Sport.
• The test occurred during official practice for the Nürburgring Langstrecken-Serie's third round, with strict measures in place to conceal Verstappen's identity, including bodyguards and a no-photography policy.
• Verstappen has expressed a long-standing desire to compete in GT3 endurance events at the Nordschleife and is reportedly seeking authorization to race there in the future.
• Despite his Red Bull contract running through 2028, rumors persist about potential moves to Mercedes or Aston Martin, though Verstappen has reiterated his commitment to his current team for now.
• Ferrari's current Formula 1 driver lineup, featuring Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, adds complexity to speculation about Verstappen's future ties with the team.