Max Verstappen Building Sim Racing Empire While Helping Develop F1 Feeder Series Tech
Max Verstappen isn't just dominating on Sundays, he's now shaping how future drivers train long before they ever reach Formula 1.
Behind the scenes, the Red Bull star is helping develop simulator software used by Formula 2 and Formula 3 teams — F1 feeder series — blending his technical expertise with a growing investment in sim racing infrastructure. 'Max also develops software for the simulators used by Formula 2 and Formula 3 teams,' said Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko.
Advertisement
'He runs a sim racing team and now he wants to put one of his best drivers in a GT car,' Marko added. 'That's an active promotion of young talents.'
Marko highlighted the skyrocketing costs of traditional karting, sometimes exceeding a quarter of a million dollars per season. 'And what does the equipment for sim racing cost? Maybe $30,000 to $50,000 in total,' he said.
Max Verstappen during the 2025 Miami Grand Prix.Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Verstappen's long term vision made headlines last week after his stealth appearance at Nurburgring under the pseudonym 'Franz Hermann.' While the GT3-class test was never officially timed, rumors of a lap record quickly circulated — and now seem all but confirmed.
Advertisement
'He told me that he beat a record by two seconds after just three laps,' said Marko. 'He knew every lap time, everything about the suspension. He was almost more into the details than he is with his Formula 1 car.'
Whether it's engineering high-end simulators or scouting the next generation through his own racing team, Verstappen is building something bigger than just his own legacy and he's doing it on his own terms.
Related: Fans Roast Max Verstappen After He Tried Hiding as 'Franz Hermann' During Ferrari Test at Nordschleife
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
3 hours ago
- Yahoo
Pacers' 6-word message after winning ECF for first time in 25 years
The post Pacers' 6-word message after winning ECF for first time in 25 years appeared first on ClutchPoints. Tyrese Haliburton and the Indiana Pacers are on Cloud Nine after beating the New York Knicks 125-108 in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals to advance to the NBA Finals. Advertisement Going into the game, the Pacers led 3-2 in the series. However, they were coming off a disappointing loss in Game 5 on the road. This put a lot of pressure on them to close out the series on their homecourt, meaning they had everything to lose on Saturday. Fortunately for Indiana fans, their team was up to the challenge. After trading blows in the first half, the Pacers used a 34-23 display in the third quarter to take a double-digit lead, getting all the distance they needed to secure the win and the series. After the game ended, the Pacers' social media account only needed six words to express their accomplishment on the post. 'WE'RE GOING TO THE NBA FINALS,' the account exclaimed. What's next for Tyrese Haliburton, Pacers Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images It's a huge milestone for Tyrese Haliburton and the Pacers, bringing the franchise back to the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000. Advertisement Indiana refused to let New York get the better of them. Their offense lit up the nets throughout the course of the game, making 54.1% of their total shots, including 51.5% from beyond the arc. They also forced 17 turnovers from the Knicks, making sure their performance on both sides of the ball was the best it could be. Seven players scored in double-digits on Indiana's behalf in the win. Pascal Siakam won East Finals MVP as he finished with 31 points, five rebounds, three assists, and three blocks. He shot 10-of-18 from the field, including 3-of-5 from beyond the arc, and 8-of-11 from the free-throw line. Tyrese Haliburton came next with 21 points and 13 assists, while Obi Toppin had 18 points and six rebounds. Meanwhile, Andrew Nembhard provided 14 points, eight assists and six steals. The Pacers will prepare for Game 1 of the 2025 NBA Finals. They face the Oklahoma City Thunder on June 5 at 8:30 p.m. ET.
Miami Herald
3 hours ago
- Miami Herald
Popular tire company makes harsh cost-cutting decision amid declines
When thinking about Formula 1, the world's most prestigious motor racing competition, only a few tire brands come to mind. This is because the motorsport uses a single tire supplier to ensure an even playing field for all teams, and the selected manufacturer must be exceptionally reliable and capable of meeting the sport's demanding performance standards. This popular tire company rose to stardom as Formula 1's tire supplier from 1997 to 2010, providing tires for top teams like Ferrari for many years. Don't miss the move: Subscribe to TheStreet's free daily newsletter Ultimately, the company chose to end its long-standing partnership with Formula 1 in 2010 to refocus its resources and prioritize its business, as the returns on investment no longer met expectations. Related: Tesla unveils an unusual innovation to win back customers However, even the world's largest tire and rubber company is not immune to today's economic challenges or devastating shutdowns to make ends meet. Shutterstock The multinational tire and rubber company Bridgestone Corp. has faced various business challenges over the last few months, including a decline in tire demand in the North American market, partly due to increased imports of low-priced tires. These bumps in the road have only grown due to U.S. tariff implementations and the uncertain economy. To mitigate the effects of these challenges, the company developed a Mid-Term Business Plan that would be enacted from 2024 to 2026. This multi-year strategy consisted of significant cost reductions and various restructurings to strengthen the company financially. Related: When you'll see empty retail store shelves due to tariffs However, in the first quarter of fiscal 2025, once positive numbers have now flipped, total revenues declined by 1% compared to last year, and the Americas went down 3%. The company predicts more negative revenues for the rest of 2025, predicting a 2% decline compared to the year prior. Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, the U.S. subsidiary of Bridgestone Corp. (BRDCY) , filed a WARN notice with the Tennessee Department of Labor and Workforce Development (TDLWD) on May 30 to inform the state that it will be permanently closing its Bridgestone facility in La Vergne, Tenn., on July 31, impacting 658 hourly and staffed workers. The Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, or WARN, requires companies to give employees 60 days' notice before planned closures or mass layoffs. This filing comes months after the company made the initial announcement of the closure in January, but no filing had yet been made. More Retail News: United Airlines CEO sounds the alarm on cheapest tickets everPopular fast-food burger chain to open first store in new marketPeloton creates new way for consumers to get cheaper equipment "This decision is part of the company's strategic initiatives to optimize its business footprint, strengthen its competitiveness and enhance the quality of the company's U.S. operations," stated the company in the initial announcement. The closure reduces costs in strategic areas, allowing Bridgestone Americas to operate more efficiently and focus on value creation, which is the second part of its Mid-Term Business Plan that will take place from 2024 to 2025. Since the day the WARN notice was filed, Bridgestone Corp.'s stock has declined by over 6% as of June 4. Related: Veteran fund manager unveils eye-popping S&P 500 forecast The Arena Media Brands, LLC THESTREET is a registered trademark of TheStreet, Inc.
Business Wire
3 hours ago
- Business Wire
From Starting Grid to Stay: Get Ready for the Ultimate Overnight Pitstop
MCLEAN, Va. & LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--To celebrate 20 years of partnership, Hilton and McLaren Racing are introducing a 'Stay Like McLaren Racing' suite in London. Combining world-class hospitality and pit lane power, beginning today, racing fans can book their dream stay from July 8-20, 2025, at The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton, just in time for the Formula 1 British Grand Prix at Silverstone. Rooted in Hilton's 'It Matters Where You Stay' campaign, the 'Stay Like McLaren Racing' suite was created in collaboration with the McLaren Formula 1 Team and invites travelers to experience a premium stay inspired by the signature hospitality Hilton has used to welcome the team at Hilton properties at race locations across the globe for two decades. Inspired by the paddock, guests first enter through a signature papaya-colored orange door to experience their hotel stay through the eyes of the iconic motorsports team during race weekend. The elevated suite features a heritage hub with iconic McLaren F1 Team memorabilia on display, twin racing simulators, a pit wall with high-intensity race day content, an in-room bar and a smoothie delivery each morning. From performance-driven fuel to restorative rest amenities, every detail is designed to help fans recharge like the pros. To have a chance to stay in the limited-edition suite, from July 8-20, 2025, fans can book directly at or Hilton Honors members can also use their Points to bid for stays in the 'Stay Like McLaren Racing' suite on select dates with additional McLaren Racing experiences being released on the Hilton Honors Experiences platform. Located in central London, The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton is just steps away from all the action at McLaren Racing Live: London in London's Trafalgar Square July 2-3, 2025; a gathering for fans to get a piece of the McLaren action before the Silverstone race weekend. 'As McLaren F1 Team's longest-standing partner, it has been an honor to stand by the team for 20 years – by not only being a home away from home when the team is on the road but also to create unique, money-can't-buy experiences for our most loyal guests and fans,' said Mark Weinstein, chief marketing officer, Hilton. 'From our trackside hotels like Conrad Singapore Marina Bay and Hilton Garden Inn Silverstone to dozens of other Hilton-branded hotels across the world where the team and fans stay for race weekend, we're proud to deliver exceptional stay experiences for the McLaren team, and we're excited to partner on this supercharged stay experience for fans looking to stay like a winner and experience the fandom like never before.' 'Great partners enable the team's performance on, and off the track, and we are committed to making sure our fans are engaged and excited about what McLaren is doing,' said Louise McEwen, chief marketing officer, McLaren Racing. 'For 20 years, we've worked with Hilton to both power meaningful experiences that deepen our fans' engagement with what we do and ensure our team can recharge and get that crucial good night's sleep before race day. We're so proud of the partnership we've built together and invite fans to celebrate with us with the 'Stay Like McLaren Racing' suite and fan experiences we've created together this year.' Through unique partnerships with brands like the McLaren F1 Team, Hilton Honors members have access to one-of-a-kind experiences that provide unparalleled access and unforgettable moments through the Hilton Honors Experiences platform. To help fans and guests stay like the star-studded racing team, Hilton and McLaren Racing have also teamed up on a series of adrenaline-fueled fan activations and experiences around the British Grand Prix in the UK from London to Silverstone, including: Exclusive Rooftop Lunch at The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton's iconic rooftop restaurant: On July 2, 2025, fans can refuel at a pop-up McLaren-inspired pit stop, offering an elevated chef-curated tasting experience, combining racing precision with culinary expertise. Hilton Honors members can bid Points to access this experience on the Hilton Honors Experiences platform from now until June 27, 2025. Enjoy the ultimate fan experience with a themed experience and suite: Cheer on the team at their home race via a live in-room broadcast of the race while setting the fastest lap on the simulator and indulging in bespoke cocktails and expertly crafted dishes. Paired with a two-night stay in the suite from July 6-8, 2025, and an F1 themed experience on July 7, Hilton Honors members can bid Points to access this experience on the Hilton Honors Experiences platform from now until June 20, 2025. Reset for the weekend with an exclusive evening at The Rooftop: With the backdrop of the iconic London skyline, guests can enjoy an evening reception paired with live music and entertainment to celebrate Hilton's milestone partnership with the McLaren F1 Team. Hilton Honors members can bid Points to access this experience on the Hilton Honors Experiences platform from now until June 27, 2025. Silverstone Rooftop Experience at the British Grand Prix, Friday Practice with Hotel Stay: Fans can also experience the fandom trackside by bidding on a chance to attend Friday's Practice sessions at the exclusive Hilton Garden Inn Silverstone Rooftop, with prime views of all the track action and a one-night stay at Spark by Hilton Luton on Friday, July 4, 2025. Bidding is available from now until June 27, 2025. The suite is the latest in Hilton's 'Stay Like' programming, which invites guests to 'Stay Like' their favorite pop culture icons with a series of immersive, experiential themed suites across Hilton's portfolio of award-winning brands. Previous suites include 'Stay Like' Wicked at New York Hilton Midtown and 'Stay Like an Infinite Icon' at The Beverly Hilton. Reservations for the 'Stay Like McLaren Racing' suite will be available to book starting at 1:00 p.m. BST / 8:00 a.m. EST on June 5, 2025, with stays running from July 8-20, 2025. To get a sneak peek of Hilton's 'Stay Like McLaren Racing' suite or book a stay, visit To learn more, visit About Hilton Hilton (NYSE: HLT) is a leading global hospitality company with a portfolio of 24 world-class brands comprising more than 8,600 properties and nearly 1.3 million rooms, in 139 countries and territories. Dedicated to fulfilling its founding vision to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality, Hilton has welcomed over 3 billion guests in its more than 100-year history, was named the No. 1 World's Best Workplace by Great Place to Work and Fortune and has been recognized as a global leader on the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices. Hilton has introduced industry-leading technology enhancements to improve the guest experience, including Digital Key Share, automated complimentary room upgrades and the ability to book confirmed connecting rooms. Through the award-winning guest loyalty program Hilton Honors, the more than 218 million Hilton Honors members who book directly with Hilton can earn Points for hotel stays and experiences money can't buy. With the free Hilton Honors app, guests can book their stay, select their room, check in, unlock their door with a Digital Key and check out, all from their smartphone. Visit for more information, and connect with Hilton on Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. About McLaren Racing Founded by racing driver Bruce McLaren in 1963. The team entered its first Formula 1 race in 1966. McLaren has since won 21 Formula 1 world championships, 195 Formula 1 Grands Prix, the Indianapolis 500 three times, and the Le Mans 24 Hours at its first attempt. McLaren Racing competes across five racing series. The team competes in the FIA Formula 1 World Championship with McLaren F1 drivers Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, the NTT INDYCAR SERIES with Arrow McLaren drivers Pato O'Ward, Nolan Siegel and Christian Lundgaard, the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship as the NEOM McLaren Formula E Team with drivers Sam Bird and Taylor Barnard, and F1 Academy with Driver Development programme member Ella Lloyd. The team also competes in the F1 Sim Racing Championship as McLaren Shadow. McLaren is a champion for sustainability in the sport and a signatory to the UN Sports for Climate Action Commitment. It is committed to achieving net zero by 2040 and fostering a diverse and inclusive culture in the motorsport industry. McLaren Racing – Official Website About The Trafalgar St. James London, Curio Collection by Hilton The Trafalgar St. James, Curio Collection by Hilton, is a luxury five-star hotel located on the edge of London's iconic Trafalgar Square, offering the curious traveller a luxurious stay and a sanctuary of style, rest and play in the heart of the capital. The hotel boasts 137 guest rooms including 3 iconic suites, with each one offering guests a relaxed and memorable stay and catering for all, whether that be work, rest or play. Each room has been meticulously designed and celebrates the modern British aesthetic. The Rooftop is one of London's top skyline bars with far reaching views out across Central London including Trafalgar Square. Situated on the ground floor of The Trafalgar St. James hotel, Rockwell is a destination Bistro & Wine Bar serving global flavours and locally sourced food, expertly crafted coffee and a broad selection of international wines, all served in the new elegant, contemporary setting.
