Dani Juncadella Astonished by Verstappen’s Nordschleife “Secret Trick”
Dani Juncadella has revealed that Max Verstappen found an unexpected way to cope with aero-wash while following rivals at the Nordschleife. The discovery surprised many experienced GT3 drivers. The revelation came amid attention on the post-race penalty handed to the winning car.
How Verstappen handled the dirty air
Verstappen managed to follow Christopher Haase’s Audi R8 LMS GT3 Evo II through high-speed sections. Haase had already said he was impressed with Verstappen’s ability to stay close in turbulent air. Juncadella echoed that sentiment and described the method as a neat, unconventional trick.
Filmogaz.com published the exchange under the phrase Dani Juncadella Astonished by Verstappen’s Nordschleife “Secret Trick”. Juncadella declined to detail the technique publicly. He indicated it was something he had not considered despite long GT3 experience.
Race context and performance
The event was the 58th ADAC Barbarossapreis. Verstappen, Juncadella and Jules Gounon shared the #3 Winward Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO. Verstappen delivered the car’s six fastest laps during the race.
- Car: Mercedes-AMG GT3 EVO (#3).
- Drivers: Max Verstappen, Daniel Juncadella, Jules Gounon.
- Competitors mentioned: Christopher Haase (Audi R8 LMS GT3 Evo II), Rowe BMW #99 M4 GT3 Evo, Nico Hantke.
The #3 entry was later stripped of its victory for a tyre rules breach. That decision dominated headlines. Still, the on-track display left an impression ahead of the summer 24-hour event.
Juncadella’s role and race management
Juncadella took responsibility for maintaining the lead during a stint marked by multiple Code 60 neutralisations. He noted neutralisations limited the number of quick laps. Data showed he did not break the eight-minute barrier, but he remained unconcerned about lap times.
By the time he handed the car to Gounon, Winward held a 20 to 30 second advantage. Gounon then had to manage traffic and strategy battles. The Rowe BMW #99 faced a different pit sequence, costing it an additional 40 seconds at its final stop.
Why veterans were impressed
Juncadella highlighted Verstappen’s confidence as a key factor. He praised Verstappen’s ability to join an unfamiliar GT3 car and immediately run at pace. That self-assurance showed from Friday practice through the race.
Juncadella also credited Verstappen’s sim racing background. He said thousands of virtual hours helped Verstappen read situations and manage traffic effectively. Those online battles translated into better spatial awareness on track.
Next steps
Verstappen and the Winward crew plan to return for the 24h Qualifiers. Those sessions are scheduled for April 18 and 19. They will prepare for the Nurburgring 24 Hours later in the season.
