In Zandvoort this weekend, it's all about Formula 1: for the fourth year in a row, the grandstands at the famous Dutch circuit will turn orange. From 3:00 p.m. it will become clear whether Max Verstappen Pole sitter Lando Norris managed to hold off him to win his home race for the fourth year in a row. Viewers should turn on the TV early, as Verstappen will have his best chance of taking the lead at the start.
Unlike many other European races, Formula 2 and Formula 3 did not travel to the Netherlands. The FIA does not want to run one category without the other, so it was neither Formula 2 nor Formula 3, or both. There is not enough space on the track for both junior categories, which is why Zandvoort is missing from these calendars. The Porsche Supercup and F1 Academy, where women will compete in two races, will go ahead after Saturday’s race was cancelled.
After the support programme, it is time for the Formula 1 drivers themselves at 3pm. They will complete 72 laps around the Zandvoort circuit before the final classification is determined. For the first time this weekend, the weather is expected to remain dry, with some sunshine expected, although the winds could remain strong. It is expected that many drivers will choose the soft C3 and medium C2 tyres at the start. This start is crucial, as overtaking is difficult, so opportunists will need to seize the opportunity quickly.
Verstappen wants to maintain perfect result
The warm-up session lasts around three minutes, after which the race will start at around 3:03 p.m. Without safety cars or red flags, the final flag can be expected in around an hour and a half. For Verstappen, it looks like it’s a matter of damage limitation, but if he can beat the usually ineffective Lando Norris, he could maintain his perfect home-court streak. Carlos Sainz (10th) and Lewis Hamilton (14th) are other names to watch.
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