Max Verstappen completes secret test under a fake name with Ferrari 296 GT3 at Nurburgring. Max Verstappen behind the wheel of a Ferrari — but under a fake name.

Max Verstappen surprised the paddock with an outing at the Nürburgring Nordschleife, behind the wheel of a Ferrari 296 GT3 from Emil Frey Racing bearing the Verstappen.com livery. According to Auto Motor und Sport, it was his first public appearance in this car during an official NLS series test, which will race on the legendary German circuit on May 10.

Despite attempts to keep a low profile — the Dutch driver used the pseudonym “Franz Hermann” and arranged for private security to block photographers at the garage entrance — Max Verstappen was easily recognized thanks to his helmet and suit, which bore his real name.

Max Verstappen behind the wheel of a Ferrari — but under a fake name
Max Verstappen has already driven the 296 GT3 in private sessions in the past, but this was his first public test. The goal? Pure enjoyment and passion for the track, considered one of the most challenging and iconic in the world.

“The Nürburgring Nordschleife is one of my absolute favorite tracks, and I hope that in a few years I can also race here in a real GT3,” the four-time Formula 1 World Champion said last year.

To take part in an official race on the circuit, Max Verstappen will need to obtain the Nordschleife permit — a mandatory requirement for anyone wishing to compete in events such as the famous 24 Hours of Nürburgring or the NLS championship, which this year includes no fewer than eleven endurance events.

In addition to his Formula 1 career, the Red Bull driver is increasingly involved in GT racing. He actively supports the Team Verstappen.com Racing, which competes in both the Sprint and Endurance Cups of the GT World Challenge Europe. He is also a direct sponsor of Thierry Vermeulen’s entry into the DTM — the young Dutch talent is the son of his manager, Raymond Vermeulen.

The appearance at the Nürburgring, even under cover, is proof of the Red Bull champion’s desire to explore new ground and prepare for future official GT3 race entries. Further evidence that even outside of Formula 1, Max Verstappen continues to pursue competition with the same hunger for victory.