Max Verstappen has chosen to continue his intensive GT3 preparation at the Nürburgring Nordschleife rather than participate in Red Bull’s scheduled Formula 1 tire testing at Suzuka this week. The three-time world champion returned to the legendary German circuit just two days after competing in the Japanese Grand Prix, underscoring his commitment to mastering one of motorsport’s most challenging venues ahead of the 24 Hours of Nürburgring.
The Dutchman’s absence from the two-day Pirelli tire test has left other drivers to fill his role, while Verstappen accumulates valuable track time in Germany. His private testing session featured two identical Mercedes-AMG GT3 cars bearing the number #3, with Jules Gounon expected to share driving duties in the second vehicle. This arrangement allows for extended mileage and parallel data collection, providing Verstappen with a significant advantage over competitors who rely primarily on official race weekends and limited testing opportunities.
Verstappen has outlined his upcoming endurance racing schedule, confirming he will skip the NLS3 round due to his GT teammates’ conflicting commitments at Paul Ricard. However, he remains focused on the Nürburgring 24h Qualifiers, where he indicated it “would make sense” to compete alongside Lucas Auer, given that both Dani Juncadella and Gounon will be unavailable for that event.
The decision to prioritize GT3 testing over Formula 1 duties represents the latest indication that Verstappen may be considering an early exit from grand prix racing. Despite being contracted through 2028, the Red Bull driver possesses performance-related exit clauses in his agreement, and his increasing focus on alternative racing categories has fueled speculation about his long-term F1 commitment. As his endurance racing activities gain prominence, this latest choice to skip official F1 testing could signal a significant shift in his career priorities.