The idea of Max Verstappen winning this year’s Dutch GP was unthinkable in Zandvoort until Saturday. A podium finish, perhaps, could be within reach. Yet, on this Sunday, it doesn’t seem so far-fetched to imagine Verstappen claiming his fourth home victory. However, it must be admitted: a few things need to fall into place. Time for our preview!
Verstappen’s Own Speed
The fact that Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris are battling for the world title and Verstappen is not, has been clear for some time. They are also fighting for victories. However, Verstappen has already shown this season that he can disrupt the McLaren party, especially in qualifying. Although he didn’t secure pole position on Saturday, as the third-place finisher, Verstappen demonstrated speed in the Red Bull. The team and driver worked hard on improvements for the qualifying round, which paid off. As a result, Verstappen may have sacrificed speed for the race, but that gamble is worth it.
Regardless, he has the speed to be at least the best of the rest on Sunday, so he is still in a sort of ‘pole’ position. “We are faster than the cars behind us,” the Dutchman suspects. “And what happens in front of me, I have no control over.”
Norris versus Piastri
The fact that Piastri secured pole position and Norris did not, sets the stage for a potential duel at the front. A duel that could end in tears for one, the other, or even both. Consider this: Norris is trailing in the World Championship (by nine points) and therefore needs to make up ground on Piastri. Since Norris is starting behind his rival in Zandvoort, an attack from him is expected. Will the Englishman dare? Does McLaren want that? And to what extent will the rivals keep each other alive on the track?
In the event of a clash, there is one driver who will be ready and able to take advantage: indeed, Max Verstappen.
Weather and Tactics
The chance of rain during the race was present all week, sometimes even as high as 80 percent. But so far, it’s been quite pleasant in Zandvoort, where the sun has mostly been shining. However, nothing is as changeable as the weather, especially on the coast. Will there be a sudden shower? Before or perhaps during the race? It could cause chaos. The same applies to the pits in Zandvoort, which are notorious for incidents. And all of this offers opportunities for a surprising outcome. One with, yes, Verstappen potentially in P1.
Realistic? Perhaps not. But impossible, as it seemed in the past weeks and even days? No, not at all. A surprise from Max Verstappen on home soil? Get ready for an exciting Sunday afternoon!
And furthermore…
…tire partner Pirelli is celebrating its 500th GP
…there are 72 laps scheduled
…the track is 4259 meters long
…there were 73 overtakes in 2024
