This year’s Dutch Grand Prix was not only about the spectacle on the track, but also about craftsmanship off the circuit. The iconic trophies, designed by Studio Piet Boon and handcrafted by Royal Delft, were a tribute to Dutch heritage. But after all the precision and three days of handwork per trophy, one cup met an unexpected fate…
During the Dutch GP, the iconic trophies from Studio Piet Boon were once again awarded, this time fully executed in Delft Blue by Royal Delft. “We are the oldest and last remaining Delft Blue factory in the Netherlands. We have been around since the 17th century, so we’ve been doing this for a while,” says master designer Simon van Oosten with a smile.
Each cup is made entirely of ceramic and hand-painted. “I spent three days per trophy applying the classic pattern. After that, they are glazed and baked in the oven for 24 hours. And then something special happens: for Delft Blue, you paint with a special black paint, which thanks to the cobalt oxide in the oven turns a deep blue color.”
Van Oosten is proud that his work made it to the finish line of an international podium. “It’s Dutch heritage that fits perfectly into the modern racing world.” However, there was a painful ending: Isack Hadjar accidentally broke the carefully crafted trophy in two shortly after the podium ceremony in Zandvoort.
