The ruthless Dutchman, who warned participants “it’s not a charity event” on race radio, moved up to 10th by the start of lap six and was fourth by lap 10, with each driver he passed having to retire.

At that stage, the remaining three racers – the grid was made up of TV, sport and social media personalities, with no professional racing drivers – were Dutch F1 journalist Jacky Martens, Red Bull engine builder Lewis Osler and YouTuber Zac Alsop.

All three were given an extra ‘fast lap’ where they could cut a corner of the track to try to hold off Verstappen for longer, but he inevitably reeled them in.

Martens, who was on pole position after qualifying, was the final driver to be passed as Verstappen completed his challenge with 40 minutes and 21 laps to spare.

Verstappen began his racing career as a junior in karting and won four consecutive F1 titles between 2021 and 2024.

“It was great to just be back in a go-kart again and go back to basics, it reminded me of racing back in the day,” he added.

“It’s a really beautiful track and well designed. I had a great day and it was good to come out with the win.”