{"id":1893793,"date":"2026-04-20T08:44:52","date_gmt":"2026-04-20T05:44:52","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1893793"},"modified":"2026-04-20T08:44:52","modified_gmt":"2026-04-20T05:44:52","slug":"max-verstappen-baffled-by-strange-car-damage-in-nls5","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1893793","title":{"rendered":"Max Verstappen baffled by \u201cstrange\u201d car damage in NLS5"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;]<\/p>\n<article>\n<header id=\"lbs-article\" class=\"article header article-header section layout layout--article-header\">\n<div class=\"col headline\">\n<div>\n<h1>Max Verstappen baffled by \u201cstrange\u201d car damage in NLS5<\/h1>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Max Verstappen was left confused by the damage he sustained to his car during NLS5 last weekend<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"section two-column\">\n<div class=\"col article-info\">\n<div>\n<address> Lewis Duncan <\/address>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div><time datetime=\"2026-04-20T09:44:52+01:00\">20 Apr 2026<\/time><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col article-actions\">\n<div class=\"block block-better-social-sharing-buttons block-social-sharing-buttons-block\">\n<div class=\"social-sharing-buttons\"><span class=\"ssb-title\"> Share<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/header>\n<div id=\"lbs-content\" class=\"content wide-two-column-sticky section layout layout--wide-two-column-sticky\">\n<div class=\"col first-column\">\n<div>\n<div>\n<figure> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><figcaption>\n<div>Verstappen took victory on-the-road on his previous visit to the Nurburgring<\/div>\n<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-preferred-source\">\n<div class=\"preferred-source-cta\">  Add as a preferred source <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen says the car damage he suffered during NLS5 on Sunday was \u201cstrange\u201d, after it denied him a shot at victory.<\/p>\n<p>The Red Bull F1 driver returned to the Nurburgring to continue preparations for the upcoming 24 Hours last weekend, competing in NLS4 and NLS5 alongside Lucas Auer in a Mercedes AMG GT3.<\/p>\n<p>The No.3 Team Verstappen car was running inside the top five when NLS4 was red-flagged due to a serious multi-car crash.<\/p>\n<p>The race was ultimately suspended and abandoned after driver Juha Meittinen tragically died as a result of the crash.<\/p>\n<p>Sunday\u2019s NLS5 went ahead as planned, with Max Verstappen taking the lead inside the opening hour into his first pitstop.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>However, he was forced to pit again shortly into his second stint when his Mercedes developed damage, which lost the No.3 crew almost half an hour due to repairs.<\/p>\n<p>Auer served the final stints in the repaired car, but the race win was out of reach, with the No.3 finishing 39th overall.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-ca59eb5e948c3a7ea871ed2d6cf0af85bcf040f4b76f51257bc5414c16bb3572\">  Car damage denies Max Verstappen NLS5 victory chance   WATCH LIVE: Max Verstappen tackles NLS5 as racing continues in wake of tragedy <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Verstappen says the splitter came loose, but is baffled as to why as he says he never made contact with anyone.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cOn the second lap of my second stint, I realised something was wrong,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe splitter had broken off. That is strange, because I didn\u2019t hit anyone, so I don\u2019t know how that happened. We need to investigate and resolve that.\u201d<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-68ae52ba253ee5adb60d5d946c27de6abe2cbe5da748ae0a6d69b3dc90e20655\">  Driver dies after multi-car crash suspends NLS4 at the Nurburgring   NLS4 featuring Max Verstappen suspended after serious multi-car crash <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>This follows Verstappen\u2019s disqualification from victory in NLS2 last month, after the No.3 car was found to have used too many sets of tyres.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Verstappen \u201cas ready as possible\u201d for 24 Hours debut<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Despite his car issues, Verstappen believes he is \u201cas ready as possible\u201d for his Nurburgring 24 Hours debut next month.<\/p>\n<p>However, he is yet to have any seat time in darkness, which was set to happen on Saturday in NLS4 before it was suspended.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI did have fun today,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe car felt good, I\u2019m happy with that.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cI was able to drive my stints, even in traffic, which was quite intense. I had battles with other GT3 cars, so in that respect, it was good preparation for the 24-hour race.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI am as ready as possible for it. The only thing is that I haven\u2019t driven in the dark yet. I don\u2019t think there is anything more you can do.\u201d<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<h2>In this article<\/h2>\n<div>\n<div class=\"field_keywords\">Max Verstappen<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block block-next-prev\">\n<div class=\"next-prev-pager contextual-region\">\n<div class=\"items\">\n<div class=\"item prev\">\n<h3>  Previous<\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> FIA president issues statement before crunch F1 2026 rules meeting<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1391890_hires.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1391890_hires.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1391890_hires.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1391890_hires.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1391890_hires.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1391890_hires.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1391890_hires.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1391890_hires.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1391890_hires.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"item next\">\n<h3> Next <\/h3>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\"> Surprise safety admission from driver who gained from banned F1 engine trick<\/div>\n<source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/m589247_f1_grand_prix_of_japan_practice.jpg?width=1920&amp;format=webp 1920w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/m589247_f1_grand_prix_of_japan_practice.jpg?width=1800&amp;format=webp 1800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/m589247_f1_grand_prix_of_japan_practice.jpg?width=1600&amp;format=webp 1600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/m589247_f1_grand_prix_of_japan_practice.jpg?width=1500&amp;format=webp 1500w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/m589247_f1_grand_prix_of_japan_practice.jpg?width=1200&amp;format=webp 1200w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/m589247_f1_grand_prix_of_japan_practice.jpg?width=900&amp;format=webp 900w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/m589247_f1_grand_prix_of_japan_practice.jpg?width=800&amp;format=webp 800w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/m589247_f1_grand_prix_of_japan_practice.jpg?width=600&amp;format=webp 600w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/m589247_f1_grand_prix_of_japan_practice.jpg?width=400&amp;format=webp 400w\" sizes=\"(min-width:1024px) 710px, (min-width:768px) 62vw, 97vw\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"article-author-block block block-configurable-views-block\">\n<div class=\"author-view grid-view js-view-dom-id-4f0988ccb8f65494e30723107491ba93cd4004f7f5e5558247aca63f34351952\">\n<div class=\"card user default\">\n<div class=\"image\"> <source srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/unnamed%20%2826%29.jpg?height=270&amp;format=webp 270w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/unnamed%20%2826%29.jpg?height=180&amp;format=webp 180w,https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/pictures\/unnamed%20%2826%29.jpg?height=90&amp;format=webp 90w\" sizes=\"100px\" type=\"image\/webp\" \/><\/div>\n<div class=\"info\">\n<div class=\"header\">\n<div class=\"text\">\n<div class=\"name\">Lewis Duncan<\/div>\n<div class=\"role\">Head of Editorial<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"desc\">\n<div>Lewis joined the Crash.net team in August of 2024 having been a journalist for five years covering MotoGP for the Motorsport Network. In February of 2026, he became Head of Editorial.\u00a0<\/div>\n<div>\u00a0<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"views-element-container block block-views-blockrelated-content-related-content-block\">\n<h3>More News<\/h3>\n<div class=\"grid-view grid-2 js-view-dom-id-a25944b7b7356da56980e41968a16dcd6f2b5dbc29026de274d8b1e880db443d\">\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>George Russell backs F1 to survive possible Max Verstappen exit<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1776510000\"> 18\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202510040588.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Russell would understand if Verstappen quit F1 \" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Rare Abu Dhabi 2021 defence made for \u2018scapegoat\u2019 Michael Masi<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1776417837\"> 17\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1126213_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen beat Hamilton to the 2021 world title in a controversial finish\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Red Bull announces technical shake-up amid poor F1 2026 form<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1776415498\"> 17\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1403273_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Red Bull has had a tough start in F1 2026\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Max Verstappen breaks silence on Gianpiero Lambiase\u2019s Red Bull exit<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1776413779\"> 17\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202510260441.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Lambiase has engineered Verstappen throughout his Red Bull career\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  News <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Nurburgring 24 Hours warning for Verstappen from F1 safety car driver<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1776333821\"> 16\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/xpb_1346072_hires.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen follows the F1 Safety Car\" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<div class=\"card card_default\">\n<div class=\"content\">\n<div class=\"links\">\n<div class=\"sections\"> F1  Feature <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Six candidates who could replace Verstappen at Red Bull if he quit F1<\/p>\n<div class=\"card-info\">\n<div class=\"time\" data-timestamp=\"1776264273\"> 15\/04\/26<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603290596.jpg?aspect_ratio=1:1\" alt=\"Verstappen is considering his future in F1 \" loading=\"lazy\"><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"col second-column\">\n<div class=\"sticky\">\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"summary body\">\n<p>Max Verstappen was left confused by the damage he sustained to his car during NLS5 last weekend<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen says the car damage he suffered during NLS5 on Sunday was \u201cstrange\u201d, after it denied him a shot at victory.<\/p>\n<p>The Red Bull F1 driver returned to the Nurburgring to continue preparations for the upcoming 24 Hours last weekend, competing in NLS4 and NLS5 alongside Lucas Auer in a Mercedes AMG GT3.<\/p>\n<p>The No.3 Team Verstappen car was running inside the top five when NLS4 was red-flagged due to a serious multi-car crash.<\/p>\n<p>The race was ultimately suspended and abandoned after driver Juha Meittinen tragically died as a result of the crash.<\/p>\n<p>Sunday\u2019s NLS5 went ahead as planned, with Max Verstappen taking the lead inside the opening hour into his first pitstop.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>However, he was forced to pit again shortly into his second stint when his Mercedes developed damage, which lost the No.3 crew almost half an hour due to repairs.<\/p>\n<p>Auer served the final stints in the repaired car, but the race win was out of reach, with the No.3 finishing 39th overall.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-ca59eb5e948c3a7ea871ed2d6cf0af85bcf040f4b76f51257bc5414c16bb3572\">  Car damage denies Max Verstappen NLS5 victory chance   WATCH LIVE: Max Verstappen tackles NLS5 as racing continues in wake of tragedy <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Verstappen says the splitter came loose, but is baffled as to why as he says he never made contact with anyone.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cOn the second lap of my second stint, I realised something was wrong,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe splitter had broken off. That is strange, because I didn\u2019t hit anyone, so I don\u2019t know how that happened. We need to investigate and resolve that.\u201d<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-68ae52ba253ee5adb60d5d946c27de6abe2cbe5da748ae0a6d69b3dc90e20655\">  Driver dies after multi-car crash suspends NLS4 at the Nurburgring   NLS4 featuring Max Verstappen suspended after serious multi-car crash <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>This follows Verstappen\u2019s disqualification from victory in NLS2 last month, after the No.3 car was found to have used too many sets of tyres.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Verstappen \u201cas ready as possible\u201d for 24 Hours debut<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Despite his car issues, Verstappen believes he is \u201cas ready as possible\u201d for his Nurburgring 24 Hours debut next month.<\/p>\n<p>However, he is yet to have any seat time in darkness, which was set to happen on Saturday in NLS4 before it was suspended.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI did have fun today,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe car felt good, I\u2019m happy with that.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cI was able to drive my stints, even in traffic, which was quite intense. I had battles with other GT3 cars, so in that respect, it was good preparation for the 24-hour race.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI am as ready as possible for it. The only thing is that I haven\u2019t driven in the dark yet. I don\u2019t think there is anything more you can do.\u201d<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"body\">\n<p>Four-time Formula 1 world champion Max Verstappen says the car damage he suffered during NLS5 on Sunday was \u201cstrange\u201d, after it denied him a shot at victory.<\/p>\n<p>The Red Bull F1 driver returned to the Nurburgring to continue preparations for the upcoming 24 Hours last weekend, competing in NLS4 and NLS5 alongside Lucas Auer in a Mercedes AMG GT3.<\/p>\n<p>The No.3 Team Verstappen car was running inside the top five when NLS4 was red-flagged due to a serious multi-car crash.<\/p>\n<p>The race was ultimately suspended and abandoned after driver Juha Meittinen tragically died as a result of the crash.<\/p>\n<p>Sunday\u2019s NLS5 went ahead as planned, with Max Verstappen taking the lead inside the opening hour into his first pitstop.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>However, he was forced to pit again shortly into his second stint when his Mercedes developed damage, which lost the No.3 crew almost half an hour due to repairs.<\/p>\n<p>Auer served the final stints in the repaired car, but the race win was out of reach, with the No.3 finishing 39th overall.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-ca59eb5e948c3a7ea871ed2d6cf0af85bcf040f4b76f51257bc5414c16bb3572\">  Car damage denies Max Verstappen NLS5 victory chance   WATCH LIVE: Max Verstappen tackles NLS5 as racing continues in wake of tragedy <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>Verstappen says the splitter came loose, but is baffled as to why as he says he never made contact with anyone.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cOn the second lap of my second stint, I realised something was wrong,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe splitter had broken off. That is strange, because I didn\u2019t hit anyone, so I don\u2019t know how that happened. We need to investigate and resolve that.\u201d<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"ins-related_content dsp-related_content_in_article_2\">\n<h2>Read More<\/h2>\n<div class=\"related-content-in-body js-view-dom-id-68ae52ba253ee5adb60d5d946c27de6abe2cbe5da748ae0a6d69b3dc90e20655\">  Driver dies after multi-car crash suspends NLS4 at the Nurburgring   NLS4 featuring Max Verstappen suspended after serious multi-car crash <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>This follows Verstappen\u2019s disqualification from victory in NLS2 last month, after the No.3 car was found to have used too many sets of tyres.<\/p>\n<h2><strong>Verstappen \u201cas ready as possible\u201d for 24 Hours debut<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p>Despite his car issues, Verstappen believes he is \u201cas ready as possible\u201d for his Nurburgring 24 Hours debut next month.<\/p>\n<p>However, he is yet to have any seat time in darkness, which was set to happen on Saturday in NLS4 before it was suspended.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI did have fun today,\u201d he added.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThe car felt good, I\u2019m happy with that.<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-block\">\n<div class=\"mpu-title\"><span>Article continues below<\/span><span>ADVERTISEMENT<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<p>\u201cI was able to drive my stints, even in traffic, which was quite intense. I had battles with other GT3 cars, so in that respect, it was good preparation for the 24-hour race.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI am as ready as possible for it. The only thing is that I haven\u2019t driven in the dark yet. I don\u2019t think there is anything more you can do.\u201d<\/p>\n<aside>\n<div class=\"block block-echobox\">\n<h2>Subscribe to our MotoGP Newsletter<\/h2>\n<div class=\"info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-info\" id=\"edit-info--2\">\n<p>Get the latest MotoGP news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"extra-info js-form-wrapper form-wrapper\" data-drupal-selector=\"edit-legal\" id=\"edit-legal--2\">\n<p>For more information see our Privacy Policy<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;http:\/\/crash.net\/motogp\/news\/1093231\/1\/max-verstappen-baffled-strange-car-damage-nls5&#8243;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.crash.net\/2026-04\/si202603250266.jpg?width=1600&amp;aspect_ratio=16:9&#8243;] Max Verstappen baffled by \u201cstrange\u201d car damage in NLS5 Max Verstappen was left confused by the damage he sustained to his car during NLS5 last weekend Lewis Duncan 20 Apr 2026 Share Verstappen took victory on-the-road on his previous visit to the Nurburgring Add as a preferred source Four-time Formula 1 world [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[47,226],"class_list":["post-1893793","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crash-net","tag-crawlmanager"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1893793","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1893793"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1893793\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1893793"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1893793"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1893793"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}