In Zandvoort, Netherlands, the atmosphere surrounding the Dutch Grand Prix with Max Verstappen and his enthusiastic fans is usually celebratory. However, this year presents a different scenario as Verstappen is facing pressure in the standings. Verstappen has been victorious in all three races at Zandvoort since the Dutch Grand Prix returned in 2021. Nonetheless, he goes into the upcoming race post-summer break without a win in the last four races, his longest winless stretch since 2020. Verstappen mentioned that the season has been more competitive, and there is a continuous effort to enhance the car balance.
This upcoming race marks Verstappen’s 200th race, and at 26 years old, the Dutch driver, contracted with Red Bull until 2028, expressed thoughts about being closer to the end of his Formula 1 career than the beginning. McLaren and Mercedes are now in close pursuit of Verstappen and Red Bull, gradually catching up after Red Bull’s strong start to the season. Beating Verstappen at his home race would be a significant statement for the competing teams.
During the first practice session amid wet conditions, McLaren’s Lando Norris led on a drying track, followed closely by Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes. However, due to the changing weather conditions and limited time on the track, teams’ competitive pace based on the session times might not be entirely accurate. Qualifying on Saturday is expected to be influenced by rain, while the race on Sunday is predicted to remain dry.
While Verstappen currently enjoys a 78-point lead in the drivers’ standings, Red Bull’s position in the constructors’ championship could be jeopardized by Sergio Perez’s recent struggles. With no podium finishes since April and no results higher than seventh since May, there have been speculations about Perez’s future in Red Bull’s lineup. Additionally, developments regarding Red Bull’s driver lineup for the future, including mentions of Liam Lawson being in contention for a seat next year, have added to the team’s dynamics.
Another notable figure, George Russell, faced disappointment in the previous race, where he lost a victory in Belgium due to his underweight car, which led to his disqualification and handed the win to his teammate Lewis Hamilton. Despite the setback, Russell expressed no hard feelings and still considers it a win in his mind. He acknowledged Mercedes’ recent strong performance but highlighted McLaren’s Norris as the only potential contender to challenge Verstappen in the standings. Russell emphasized the significant lead Verstappen and Red Bull hold and the unlikelihood of catching up under normal circumstances, noting the changing dynamics in Formula 1 in recent years.
