On Saturday, Max Verstappen claimed his first GT3 race victory during the ninth round of the Nürburgring Endurance Series (NLS). Alongside co-driver Chris Lulham, he drove his Ferrari 296 GT3 to a commanding win. This feat followed his Grand Slam at the Azerbaijan GP, marking a successful fortnight for Max – so successful, in fact, that he matched a long-standing record set by the legendary Jacky Ickx.
Nowadays, it’s highly unusual for Formula 1 drivers to compete in other racing classes. With 24 Grands Prix on the calendar, it’s challenging to find time for, say, an endurance race. Things were different in the past. The schedule of the premier class was much more relaxed, and the sport was primarily concentrated within Europe. Moreover, most drivers commonly tried their luck in other disciplines.
Jacky Ickx’s Record
Max Verstappen’s performance harkened back to bygone days and earned him international acclaim. Moreover, his victory in his GT3 debut meant that he matched a long-standing record. The last Formula 1 driver to secure wins in two different racing classes within two weeks was Jacky Ickx. In 1972, the celebrated Belgian won the 6 Hours of Watkins Glen and the German GP consecutively.
Verstappen plans to compete in the GT3 more frequently in the future. His foray into the NLS was primarily intended as preparation for a potential participation in the 24 Hours of the Nürburgring. The Dutchman considers the ‘Green Hell’ one of his favourite circuits and may already be at the start of the infamous endurance race next year. The legendary 24 Hours of Le Mans also piques his interest, although he has no Triple Crown ambitions.
