Max Verstappen takes the championship lead after winning his home Grand Prix, the first Dutch race back at Zandvoort since 1985.
Saturday’s Qualifying session saw the Dutchman on provisional pole after forgetting to open DRS in his fastest flying lap. Race Day displayed Mercedes dominating the podium, but it was Max Verstappen who came out on top. Again.
Verstappen controlled the 72-lap race, tactically angling his car on the start line to gain the best possible start he could – cutting off his rival, Hamilton. Along with this, Verstappen raced a two-stop strategy, following the lead of Hamilton, passing the chequered flags with an army of orange supports applauding their winner.
Surprisingly, not a single red flag was waved in the race, especially since after every practice session and qualifying being interrupted by red flags. However, we did still have occasional spins and two drivers retiring – Mazepin on lap 43 and Tsunoda shortly after. Norris and Perez even had contact multiple times as both fought for 9th: Perez successfully winning the battle.
Sergio Perez was voted Driver of the Day, showing immense determination as the Red Bull started the Grand Prix in the pitlane due to an engine change, then pitting after five laps because of tyre compromise and still managed to cross the chequered flags in points position. However, it was not enough to strip away Mercedes’ lead in the Constructor Championship.
Close behind Perez, with an outstanding performance in the race, was Lando Norris. Norris had a tricky start; unable to overtake Stroll who was stuck behind Russell, leaving the McLaren to patiently wait for his time. With luck on his side, Stroll and Russell pitted at the same time, giving Norris clean air to drive off into the distance and hunt down the two Alpine cars. The McLaren was also helped by his teammate Daniel Ricciardo, who following team’s orders allowed Norris to pass – a deed he has done several times now. Norris passed the chequered flags in 10th, three places up from his unfortunate qualifying that landed him in P13 after a red flag ended Q2.
Ferrari’s strong double points finish and McLaren’s one pointer from Norris has left McLaren to be overtaken by Ferrari in the Constructor standings. 11.5 points split both teams. Though, Bottas – with his 3rd Place finish reclaimed his Drivers Championship standing back in P3 (a position that seems popular with him this season).
Nevertheless, it’s the battle for the World Championship title this year that fuels fans, the teams, drivers, and commentators with the love for Formula One. Max Verstappen vs Lewis Hamilton.
With nine races left and three points between the pair, the excitement of who will end the season with the World Championship title could not be greater. They sure know how to put on a show…
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