Formula 1 safety car driver Bernd Maylander has praised Max Verstappen for his growing involvement in GT racing, describing the Dutch driver’s performances as impressive and closely watched across the motorsport world.
Speaking on the F1 Beyond The Grid podcast, Maylander—himself a veteran of endurance racing and a former winner of the Nürburgring 24 Hours—shared his perspective on Verstappen’s transition from Formula 1 dominance to exploring new challenges in GT3 competition.
Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 world champion, has recently taken part in GT racing events at the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife, widely regarded as one of the most demanding circuits in the world. His participation has drawn significant attention from both Formula 1 fans and endurance racing enthusiasts.
Maylander said the move has generated widespread interest within the GT racing community, noting that many observers are keen to see how Verstappen adapts to a different style of competition.
“In general, the whole motorsport and GT world is keeping an eye on what he’s doing at that racetrack,” Maylander said.
Verstappen has been competing in a Mercedes-AMG GT3 Evo, a purpose-built racing machine designed specifically for endurance events. The car differs significantly from the high-downforce, open-wheel machines used in Formula 1, requiring adjustments in driving technique, race strategy, and vehicle management.
Maylander explained that while there are some similarities between GT3 cars and the Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series he drives as the official Formula 1 safety car, the two are fundamentally different in purpose and performance.
“The basics are somehow similar,” he said, referring to aspects such as engine placement and overall balance. “But in the end, the GT3 is a proper racing car. It is developed just to be a race car on a racetrack, with much more downforce and less weight.”
In contrast, the safety car must adhere to road car regulations, even though it is heavily modified for track use. Maylander noted that despite having more horsepower, the safety car is significantly heavier and operates under different constraints, including the use of road tires.
“The safety car has a different job. We have to cover the safety aspect, not to win races,” he said. “So the balance and the performance are something completely different.”
The transition from Formula 1 to GT racing involves adapting to a new set of technical and tactical demands. GT3 racing typically features longer race formats, multi-driver lineups, and a greater emphasis on consistency and endurance rather than outright speed over shorter distances.
For Verstappen, the move represents an opportunity to expand his skill set beyond the confines of Formula 1, where he has already achieved considerable success. His interest in endurance racing has been well documented, with speculation that he could eventually compete in major events such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Maylander, who began his own racing journey at the Nürburgring, highlighted the significance of the circuit in developing driving skills. The Nordschleife, often referred to as the “Green Hell,” is known for its length, complexity, and challenging conditions.
“That was my track to learn how to drive quickly,” Maylander said, recalling his early experiences driving on the circuit after obtaining his license. “It’s a very difficult track. It’s not always safe, and overtaking is not easy.”
He added that success on such a circuit requires not only technical ability but also patience and judgment, particularly in GT racing where traffic management and race awareness are critical.
“You need a lot of passion to find the right moment to overtake someone, especially in GT3 cars,” he said.
Verstappen’s performances at the Nürburgring have been widely praised for demonstrating his adaptability. Despite the differences between Formula 1 and GT racing, he has shown an ability to quickly adjust to new machinery and racing conditions.
Analysts say this versatility is a hallmark of elite drivers, many of whom have successfully competed across multiple disciplines. The ability to transition between formats is often seen as a measure of a driver’s overall talent and understanding of racing dynamics.
Verstappen’s involvement in GT racing also reflects a broader trend among Formula 1 drivers exploring opportunities beyond the sport. With increasing overlap between different racing series, drivers are finding new ways to expand their careers and engage with diverse audiences.
For teams and manufacturers, the presence of a high-profile driver like Verstappen in GT racing brings additional visibility and interest. It also highlights the growing interconnectedness of global motorsport, where performance in one category can influence perceptions in another.
Maylander described Verstappen’s efforts as “fantastic,” noting that his participation adds excitement to the GT racing scene. “Everyone loves it. It’s pure racing,” he said.
The appeal of GT racing lies in its accessibility and variety. Unlike Formula 1, which features highly specialized and exclusive machinery, GT3 cars are based on production models, making the racing more relatable to fans.
At the same time, the competition remains highly technical and demanding, requiring precise driving and strategic thinking. The combination of speed, endurance, and close racing creates a distinct challenge that differs from the sprint-style intensity of Formula 1.
For Verstappen, balancing commitments between Formula 1 and other racing interests presents logistical challenges. However, his willingness to explore new avenues suggests a long-term vision that extends beyond his current championship pursuits.
As the Formula 1 season progresses, attention will continue to focus on his performances both on and off the grid. His GT racing appearances are likely to remain a point of interest, particularly as he gains more experience in endurance formats.
Maylander’s comments reflect a broader appreciation within the motorsport community for drivers who push beyond their primary discipline. Such efforts not only enhance individual careers but also contribute to the evolution of the sport as a whole.
With Verstappen continuing to test himself in different racing environments, his journey is being closely followed by fans and professionals alike. Whether in Formula 1 or GT racing, his performances continue to generate interest and set benchmarks for versatility and skill.
As Maylander noted, competing on circuits like the Nürburgring requires a unique combination of talent, courage, and precision. Verstappen’s ability to meet those demands has reinforced his reputation as one of the leading drivers of his generation.
His exploration of GT racing may still be in its early stages, but it already offers a glimpse into a broader chapter of his career—one that could see him leave a mark across multiple forms of motorsport.
