Max Verstappen’s Winter Break GT3 Test with Emil Frey Racing Explained
During the winter break, Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen took the opportunity to conduct a two-day test with DTM team Emil Frey Racing, driving their Ferrari 296 GT3 at Portimao. The surprise collaboration raised eyebrows, and here are the key reasons behind the test:
Supporting Teammate Thierry Vermeulen:
Verstappen’s connection with fellow Dutchman and Emil Frey Racing driver Thierry Vermeulen runs deep, with Verstappen providing support to Vermeulen, who is part of the DTM team. Verstappen’s involvement in the test aimed to assist Vermeulen’s development and contribute valuable feedback.
Intensive Test Program:
Verstappen and Emil Frey Racing collaborated to design an intensive test program focused on different setups and well-defined goals. The test involved approximately 100 laps on each day, allowing the team to explore various configurations and gather insights from Verstappen’s experience behind the wheel.
Driver Coaching and Management:
Verstappen’s father, Jos Verstappen, serves as a driver coach for Thierry Vermeulen, highlighting the close relationship between the two drivers. Additionally, Thierry Vermeulen’s father, Raymond, manages Max Verstappen. The presence of both fathers during the test emphasizes the collaborative and supportive nature of their connection.
Improving Performance with Verstappen’s Feedback:
Emil Frey Racing aimed to enhance their performance by leveraging Max Verstappen’s feedback. The team acknowledged Verstappen’s world-class abilities, even in a GT3 car, emphasizing the impact of his insights on vehicle dynamics and performance.
Verstappen’s Adaptability to GT3:
Despite limited experience in GT3 machinery, Verstappen showcased his adaptability by quickly getting acquainted with the Ferrari 296 GT3. His impressive performance, evident in onboards and data analysis, demonstrated his ability to handle the GT3 car at a remarkable level.
Advantages for Emil Frey Racing:
The test not only benefited Thierry Vermeulen’s development but also provided valuable advantages to Emil Frey Racing. Verstappen’s contribution during the test sessions, coupled with his prior involvement in a test at Mugello in July 2023, helped the team gain insights into vehicle development and improve the Ferrari 296.
Precise and Valuable Feedback:
Verstappen’s precise statements and thorough involvement in testing settings, both on the track and in e-gaming, impressed the team. His interest in motorsport beyond Formula 1, extensive knowledge about racing series, drivers, and teams, contributed to the collaborative testing process.
Strategic Workshop Visit:
Verstappen visited Emil Frey Racing’s workshop in Safenwil, Switzerland, expressing a desire to understand the team’s setup and make future plans together. He explored the team’s facilities, including their simulator, providing feedback and insights for further improvement.
The winter break test with Emil Frey Racing showcased Max Verstappen’s commitment to supporting teammates, his adaptability across different racing categories, and his valuable contributions to vehicle development and performance improvement.
