BREAKING:Max Verstappen opens door for summer break outing after learning of… read more
Max Verstappen has recently revealed that he has been awarded a ‘platinum’ driver rating by the FIA, the highest category in the governing body’s driver classification system. This move has sparked speculation that the Red Bull Racing driver may participate in a GT racing event during Formula 1’s summer break, particularly the KW 6h ADAC Ruhr-Pokal-Rennen, part of the Nürburgring Langstrecken Serie, scheduled for August 16.
The FIA classifies drivers into four categories—platinum, gold, silver, and bronze—based on their racing experience and success across different levels of motorsport. Platinum status is reserved for drivers who have achieved significant milestones in high-level racing competitions. Verstappen, a four-time Formula 1 world champion, falls well within these criteria. He now joins a select group of six current F1 drivers who hold platinum status. This group includes Fernando Alonso, Lando Norris, Nico Hülkenberg, Lance Stroll, and Franco Colapinto.
Receiving such a rating is generally a prerequisite for F1 drivers looking to participate in other forms of motorsport, particularly sports car events like the World Endurance Championship (WEC) or classic endurance races such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the 24 Hours of Daytona. Notably, Fernando Alonso and Nico Hülkenberg previously secured their platinum ratings to compete in the WEC, while Lando Norris and Lance Stroll did so for Daytona. Franco Colapinto, a rising talent, also applied for his rating to be eligible for Le Mans and the European Le Mans Series (ELMS).
Verstappen explained that his decision to apply for the FIA rating wasn’t necessarily tied to a specific commitment but was more about being prepared for future opportunities. According to the Dutch driver, the application process was straightforward: it involved filling out a form, paying a fee, and waiting for about a week for the result. He stated, “I applied because I have to do it at some point, so it’s better I get it out of the way.” He also confirmed that he submitted the application two weeks prior to receiving the result.
In a light-hearted moment, Verstappen joked about the rating he received, saying he was “secretly hoping for a bronze rating” and might consider appealing the platinum classification to try for a silver. His playful remarks, however, do not obscure the fact that his platinum status now opens up real possibilities for participation in GT or endurance racing.
Although receiving the rating does not confirm Verstappen’s participation in the Nürburgring race, it ensures that there are no administrative delays should he decide to compete. The event falls conveniently within F1’s summer hiatus, offering him a rare opportunity to explore other racing formats without conflicting with his primary schedule.
