Max Verstappen bringing ‘new vibe’ to Nurburgring shows why Formula 1 can’t afford to lose him

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As Max Verstappen has created a new air of excitement ahead of the 24 Hours of Nordschleife, his importance to F1 becomes more pronounced.

Verstappen is set to participate in the 24 Hours of Nordschleife at Nurburgring this weekend, marking his return to GT racing after an appearance earlier this year.

Verstappen has earned the backing of Lando Norris as he looks to add his name to the list of F1 drivers that have conquered the iconic endurance race.

Verstappen’s impressive outing at Nurburgring earlier this year gave him a reprieve from the frustration he was enduring in his Formula 1 career.

And while things may have turned around for him now, the possibility of Max Verstappen retiring from Formula 1 is a terrifying prospect, especially considering the tangible impact he has made at Nurburgring.

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How Nurburgring clients feel about Max Verstappen venturing into GT racing this season

Speaking in an interview with Racing News 365 Netherlands, Renger van der Zande spoke about the impact Max Verstappen has had at Nurburgring.

He noted that several of his driver clients at Pogona Insurance have praised the new energy and vibe that Verstappen’s participation has brought to the event.

“At the Nurburgring, there are also many clients of mine whom I insure and work with. They say that for a while now—half a year to a year—there has been a kind of vibe on the Nordschleife thanks to Max Verstappen.

“That is very special, as if something very exciting is about to happen. That is of course great to hear as a Dutchman, and I also think it is true. It is the experience of something unique.”

Verstappen’s participation at the 24 Hours of Nordschleife created a record demand for the event this weekend, as fans are looking to flock to Nurburgring to watch the four-time world champion.

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Max Verstappen proving his star power to Formula 1 amid retirement concerns

Earlier this year, amid frustration with the new F1 regulations, Verstappen hinted at retiring from Formula 1, suggesting that he wasn’t interested in racing under the new ruleset.

There were those within the paddock who believed Verstappen was bluffing to try and leverage some changes to the new regulations.

While this approach may have worked out, with teams planning a regulation overhaul in line with Verstappen’s demands, the possibility of him retiring is still not completely off the table.

If anything, Verstappen’s ability to move tickets and create unexpected demand at Nurburgring this weekend should remind Formula 1 of his star power and how much of an attraction he is.

The recent adjustments to the new regulations were a step in the right direction, and with more changes set to be implemented in the years to come, it could ensure Verstappen stays happy in Formula 1.

But for whatever reason, should Verstappen opt to retire or even take a break from Formula 1, there will be a need for new stars and attractions, something Formula 1 officials must be cognisant of going forward.