Max Verstappen secured a thrilling victory at the Dutch Grand Prix, held on his home soil. The Red Bull driver’s win not only delighted the local fans but also marked a significant achievement in Formula 1 history. By claiming this win, Verstappen matched Sebastian Vettel’s decade-old record of nine consecutive race victories, set in 2013.
Fernando Alonso made a triumphant return to the podium, finishing in second place. The Spanish driver’s last podium appearance dated back to the Canadian GP. Joining him on the podium was Pierre Gasly, who also ended a podium drought, achieving this feat for the first time since the 2021 Azerbaijan GP.
Verstappen’s Dominance in Challenging Conditions
The Dutch GP commenced with dramatic weather changes that added complexity to the race. Initially leading on a dry track, Verstappen navigated the changing conditions masterfully. The race saw drivers switching strategies due to intermittent rainfall, with some opting for intermediate tires. Verstappen managed the uncertainty by making well-timed pit stops, allowing him to regain the lead.
Red Flag and a Dash to the Finish
The race witnessed a red flag after Zhou Guanyu’s crash, resulting in a seven-lap sprint to the finish. Despite the challenging conditions, Verstappen showcased his skill by expertly handling the slippery track during the restart. He managed to keep Alonso at bay, securing his third consecutive Dutch GP victory.
Alonso’s Stellar Performance
Fernando Alonso proved his prowess by delivering an exceptional performance in the mixed weather conditions. His driving finesse kept Verstappen under pressure during the restart. While Alonso secured a commendable second place, the Aston Martin driver also earned an additional point by setting the fastest lap.
Gasly Benefits from Perez Penalty
Sergio Perez, who initially crossed the finish line in third, received a five-second time penalty for pit-lane speeding. This demotion promoted Pierre Gasly to the third position, marking a significant achievement for the French driver, who hadn’t stood on the podium for over two years.
Challenges for Ferrari and Hamilton
Charles Leclerc’s retirement due to damage on the opening lap left Carlos Sainz as the sole Ferrari representative in the race. Despite pressure from Lewis Hamilton in the final laps, Sainz managed to retain fifth place, securing valuable points for his team.
Verstappen Dominates Championship Standings
With this win, Verstappen extended his lead in the championship standings, amassing a considerable 138-point advantage over teammate Sergio Perez. Remarkably, Verstappen’s total points for the season have now surpassed the cumulative points of the Mercedes team in the Constructors’ Championship.