Verstappen potentially considering Porsche as his personal vehicle?

Max Verstappen, the Dutch Formula 1 driver, has shown a keen interest in expanding his racing horizons, recently testing the Ferrari 296 GT3 with Emil Frey Racing in the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS). This venture marks a new chapter in Verstappen's racing career, as he sets his sights on the iconic 24-hour race at the Nürburgring.

In the world of endurance racing, Verstappen is eyeing the coveted "Nordschleife permit," a requirement for participating in an NLS race. To obtain this permit, drivers must first compete in two lower-powered races. Verstappen could potentially complete these races during the doubleheader on September 13/14, should the Formula 1 calendar allow for it.

The "Nordschleife permit" is not exclusive to Verstappen, but is available to drivers with the FIA driver rating of Gold or Platinum. Interestingly, Verstappen could use a Porsche Cayman, capable of achieving lap times around 8:32.188 minutes on the Nordschleife track variant, to secure his permit. However, in the slightly detuned version required for the permit, lap times are around 9 minutes, and there are fewer PS available due to a restrictor.

Verstappen's foray into the NLS scene has already garnered attention, with his pseudonym "Franz Hermann" gaining prominence and featuring on official merchandise items. Moreover, his unofficial record for GT3 vehicles on the track variant of the NLS has sparked discussions in the racing community.

Chris Lulham, who also tested the Ferrari with Verstappen, started the sixth round of the series with a Porsche Cayman 718 GT4 CS for the Lionspeed GP team. Lionspeed GP, currently active in the international GT World Challenge, is likely to support Verstappen in his quest for the "Nordschleife" license in 2023 or 2024, although the exact team has not been confirmed.

Verstappen has expressed his desire to participate in the next 24-hour race at the Nürburgring, scheduled for May 16th/17th, 2026. Fortunately, there is no clash between the Formula 1 calendar and this event, allowing Verstappen to make the trip to the Eifel after the Monza weekend.

With the potential to bypass the usual permit requirements by driving two different vehicles in a race and completing 14 laps in value and without penalty, Verstappen could contest a race with the Ferrari 296 GT3 in the current season, should he obtain his "Nordschleife" license. The lap record, while not officially timed, has certainly piqued the interest of both Verstappen and the racing community, adding an exciting dimension to his racing career off the Formula 1 track.