Max ‘the sim racer’ Verstappen is the perfect name for the Dutchman this weekend. Extending his passion for motorsport racing from F1 to the world of simulations, Verstappen is on a roll. Participating in the 24H of Spa sim race before the Hungarian GP seems risky due to potential sleep deprivation. But then, this is Max Verstappen we are talking about – he can make the impossible possible!

However, the physical strain a 24-hour-long simulation race can have on him is unimaginable. Not enough sleep before jumping into his RB20’s cockpit could considerably impact his racing. Especially after a challenging qualifying session, this ‘sleep sacrifice’ could cost the Red Bull No.1 his victory at the Hungaroring.

Fans who were following the sim race shared updates on Team Redline. A user @FormulaRacer240 shared on X: “It’s past 3 am in Hungary and Max Verstappen is working on his nightmoves at Spa 24hr with Team Redline where the sun is about to be rising over the circuit. What a boss.” This means Verstappen would have very little time to get some sleep and then move ahead for the Hungarian track. It’s raising some eyebrows.

Max Verstappen’s obsession with sim racing isn’t new. But to participate in a 24H iRacing event, just before an F1 race seems like a precarious idea. Moreover, F1 is an extremely physically straining sport. Lack of sleep or rest is bound to hamper the 3x champ in some way, even if he claims to be the ‘toughest man’.

Max Verstappen and his love for simulation racing

Max Verstappen grew up driving F1 simulations, thanks to his father and F1 driver Jos Verstappen. Many believe his early experience in sim-racing has helped his career. Now, the Dutch has an extensive simulation setup in his home and another one in his motorhome which he drives across Europe during the European leg of F1. Verstappen has his sim-racing team – Team Redline. He has participated in several virtual racing series. And how does Max remain winless? He has also won several sim-racing events. Last year, he participated in the 2023 Virtual Le Mans, however, he had to retire due to technical issues on the game’s side.

While some tag Verstappen’s nature obsessive, it isn’t hard to guess why he is always on his simulator. Max Verstappen aims for best results and hence, the simulation. Besides, he is just upskilling himself (always a step ahead of his rivals!). However, a sleep-deprived Max in Hungaroring? How favorable is that?

Verstappen’s dedication to sim-racing proves his persistent drive for perfection in motorsport. Yet his decision to engage in a 24-hour sim race before the Hungarian GP might test the limits of even his exceptional endurance. The physical and mental toll of such an intense schedule could jeopardize his performance at Hungaroring.

Max Verstappen’s passion for the sport is undeniable, however, this weekend might reveal whether the risk was worth the reward or a costly miscalculation in his pursuit of greatness. Will Verstappen’s sleep sacrifice affect his Hungarian GP race? Share your thoughts in the comments.