Max Verstappen escapes F1 frustrations for private GT3 test at the Nürburgring – VIDEO. Max Verstappen returns to the Nürburgring for a private GT3 test.

From Suzuka to the Nordschleife: Max Verstappen straight back on track for a private test

Max Verstappen wasted no time getting back behind the wheel after the Japanese Grand Prix, heading straight to the Nürburgring for a private test session at the legendary Nordschleife, where he was seen driving a Mercedes-AMG GT3.

No break

The current state of Formula 1 does not appear to be bringing much enjoyment to Max Verstappen, to the point that the Dutch driver has not ruled out the possibility of stepping away from the sport following his eighth-place finish at the most recent Japanese Grand Prix.

What continues to excite the four-time world champion, however, is the unique atmosphere of the “Green Hell” at the Nordschleife. It was there that Verstappen had recently competed in the 4 Hours of Nürburgring before traveling to Suzuka, a race he initially won alongside his teammates before being disqualified.

Back on track immediately

Max is already on track during the private testing in Nurburgring today! 🔥 pic.twitter.com/dNw4sCduhg

— Ana 🦁 (@maxvcalloway) March 31, 2026

While Formula 1 has now entered a prolonged break that will last from this week until the first race weekend in May, Max Verstappen has chosen to stay active, returning to the track immediately after Suzuka for a private testing session at the Nordschleife.

Without even taking time to recover from the long journey, Max Verstappen jumped into the cockpit of a Mercedes-AMG GT3. A fan trackside captured footage of the Red Bull driver as he carried out his testing program.

The session is part of Verstappen’s preparation for the upcoming 24 Hours of Nürburgring, which he is set to contest in mid-May, further highlighting his growing interest in GT racing alongside his Formula 1 commitments.

Max Verstappen’s immediate return to the Nordschleife therefore highlights his growing preference for traditional racing over the complex hybrid management of modern F1. Based on his testing schedule, the world champion is prioritizing his endurance debut over the month-long F1 break.