FIA safety car driver Bernd Mayländer has given Max Verstappen advice ahead of his debut in the Nürburgring 24 Hours next month.
Mayländer, who recently celebrated his 500th grand prix as the official FIA safety car driver, previously won the Nürburgring 24 Hours in 2000. The same race Verstappen is set to take part in.
Verstappen’s attempt in a Mercedes GT3 machine is anticipated to attract a significant worldwide audience.
Mayländer’s Key Advice for Verstappen
Mayländer said that success at the Nürburgring requires discipline, not just talent. “My most important advice? We had a perfect team and a perfect car in 2000, but during every briefing, the message was the same: the drivers have to cooperate with the team.”
He added: “If you know the car is good and the speed is there, think about that finish flag. Don’t risk too much.”
Mayländer also cautioned Verstappen about the Nürburgring’s unpredictable nature. “It’s always a bit of luck with the rules and the Code 60 situations. You can get a penalty on your pants that way.”
He stressed the importance of staying on the track. “But the most important thing: stay on the track. Traffic is the biggest lesson I had to learn. Don’t push too hard on the inside.”
Lessons From the Past
Mayländer recounted past experiences to illustrate his points. “In the last 30 years, we have seen that even the fastest cars don’t make it if they take too much risk.”
He recalled an incident from his own winning experience. “We also had one driver in 2000 who took a lot of risks. We really had to contain him and say, ‘Hey, keep it safe.’ We’re on pole, but you don’t have to be first after the first corner.
“The race is incredibly long. If you don’t lead after lap one, maybe you will on lap 50. That option is always there, as long as you keep the car in one piece.”
The Pressure on Verstappen
Mayländer acknowledged the attention Verstappen’s participation will bring. “It’s great that we have a Formula 1 champion taking part in the 24 Hours. That’s good for the sport, the fans and the championship.”
Verstappen’s previous appearances at the Nürburgring have attracted considerable audiences. Mayländer cautioned against the “pressure” Verstappen will face.
The race is scheduled for the weekend of May 16-17th, in between the Miami and Canadian F1 Grands Prix.