German 'narrow-mindedness' criticized regarding Verstappen's permit.

      "People are debating whether he will receive his permit."

      12 September 2025 - 13:50

      Ralf Schumacher has criticized the German motorsport authorities for making Max Verstappen "sweat" while waiting for his racing license for the Nurburgring. Reports from Germany indicate that the 27-year-old four-time world champion was supposed to make his debut at the Nordschleife this weekend in the Nurburgring Long-Distance Series (NLS), which is a requirement to obtain the sought-after permit to compete in GT3 cars at the 24 Hours. However, doubts have arisen about the debut's occurrence due to his name being absent from the entry list.

      Schumacher, 50, expressed to sport.de that Red Bull should be commended for supporting its star in chasing his aspirations. "I believe preventing him from doing that could lead to dissatisfaction with his current situation or even make him irritable," the former F1 driver stated. He also criticized his fellow countrymen for complicating the matter unnecessarily.

      "Instead of being pleased that Max is bringing attention back to the Nordschleife and acknowledging what all the drivers accomplish there, people are squabbling over his permit before he even gets on the track," the ex-F1 driver remarked. "It's embarrassing."

      Since 2015, obtaining a specific Nordschleife permit has been mandatory, requiring theoretical education and on-track experience before moving into GT3 vehicles. Some feel Verstappen should follow the same protocols as everyone else, but Schumacher argues that the Dutch driver’s accomplishments are proof enough of his capabilities.

      "Yes, I agree with Norbert Haug - the main issue is that people tend to be narrow-minded, especially in Germany," Schumacher commented. "Naturally, I would grant Max Verstappen his license immediately, without needing to give him additional instructions about hazardous situations on the track. That would close the matter."

      He further stated, "If others can manage it, the best driver in the world should be able to as well."

      In the meantime, Verstappen mentioned to El Mundo Deportivo that he has no interest in following Fernando Alonso’s path into Indycar or the Dakar Rally. "No, I don't want to do that," he explained. "Not the Dakar, not the Indy 500. I enjoy watching it, but it’s not the kind of racing I'm interested in after Formula 1. GT racing is tough, yes, but not in the desert. After Formula 1, you’ve already risked your life enough over the years - it's not worth it."