Ralf Schumacher Criticizes Max Verstappen Over Risky Ferrari Test at Nordschleife
Max Verstappen has come under fire after being seen taking part in a high-speed test in a Ferrari at one of the world’s most demanding and dangerous circuits — the Nürburgring Nordschleife. The reigning Formula 1 world champion, who is usually seen behind the wheel of a Red Bull, surprised many when he was spotted driving a Ferrari 296 GT earlier this month, just days after finishing fourth at the Miami Grand Prix.
What made the event even more controversial was Verstappen’s initial attempt to keep the outing under wraps. To avoid drawing attention, he participated under the alias “Franz Hermann.” However, it didn’t take long for fans and insiders to piece things together, and Verstappen later confirmed his identity and his involvement in the test session.
The drive was part of a promotional event rather than an official racing session, but it still drew sharp criticism — particularly from former F1 driver and current Sky Sports Germany pundit Ralf Schumacher. Speaking on the “Backstage Pit Lane” podcast, Schumacher expressed serious concern about the safety of Verstappen’s decision and how it might have been perceived by Red Bull Racing, the team he currently represents.
“If I were his team boss, I would have asked him if he was out of his mind,” Schumacher stated bluntly. “The Nordschleife is no place for unnecessary risks, especially for a current F1 driver. I know my view might be unpopular, but I’ve always believed that track is far too dangerous.”
Schumacher went on to elaborate on his concerns, referencing the historical context of the circuit’s reputation. “The DTM [Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters] was banned from the Nordschleife because it was too fast and too dangerous. Now, GT3 cars are even faster, and the margin for error is incredibly slim. Things can go wrong very quickly there.”
While Verstappen wasn’t racing competitively during the test, the risks of high-speed driving at such a treacherous venue remain significant. Schumacher acknowledged that testing a GT3 car in itself isn’t the issue — in fact, Verstappen owns and operates his own GT3 team, Verstappen.com Racing — but questioned why the notoriously perilous Nordschleife had to be the venue of choice.
“The track’s history speaks for itself,” Schumacher said. “Many incidents and accidents have happened there. It’s exciting, yes, but from a safety perspective, it’s just not worth it — especially for someone like Max, who is in the middle of a championship fight.”
Verstappen’s passion for motorsport goes beyond F1, and his interest in GT3 racing has been growing steadily. However, his involvement in side activities, particularly ones that carry considerable risk, could be seen as reckless — especially by his team, sponsors, and fans who are counting on him to deliver results in the Formula 1 season.
Red Bull Racing has yet to publicly comment on Verstappen’s extracurricular track day, but Schumacher’s comments reflect a broader concern in the paddock about drivers taking unnecessary risks during the season.
Now, Verstappen must refocus his efforts on Formula 1 as he heads into the upcoming Emilia-Romagna Grand Prix. Currently sitting third in the drivers’ standings, he trails behind McLaren drivers Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris — the latter of whom finished as runner-up in last year’s championship and is now looking increasingly like a serious title contender.
With the championship battle heating up and every race carrying increased importance, Verstappen’s off-track activities — however thrilling — are drawing scrutiny. Whether Red Bull addresses the incident internally or brushes it off remains to be seen. What’s clear is that Verstappen’s love for racing in all its forms continues to push boundaries, for better or worse.
