The Dutch Formula 1 Grand Prix was interrupted after one lap due to a monumental crash involving local driver Max Verstappen. The Red Bull driver lost control of his car on a wet track, colliding with the outer wall of the last corner of the Zandvoort circuit, known as Luyendyk corner.
After the crash, Verstappen’s vehicle crossed the track before coming to a stop inside. The driver reported that he was ‘fine’ and expressed his apologies to his team for the premature abandonment of the race.
The driver was fortunate not to be hit by other vehicles during the incident. His teammate, Pierre Gasly, had to swerve to avoid him in time, while Audi driver Nico Hulkenberg also dodged a major scare when his teammate, Gabriel Bortoleto, spun out in front of him.
With the red flag, all drivers gathered in the pit, waiting for the resumption of the competition. Additionally, the teams had the opportunity to change tires before the restart, which is scheduled for 15:33 local time.
At the time of the accident, Verstappen was in seventh place after a disappointing qualifying session. The polesitter, Lando Norris, maintained the lead during a chaotic start, while championship leader Kimi Antonelli advanced past George Russell to position himself second.
For Verstappen, this incident represents an unfortunate closing chapter to six years competing at home, where he had won the first three editions of the revived Dutch Grand Prix between 2021 and 2023. The race will be removed from the calendar after organizers decided not to renew the contract with F1 management.
Recently, the four-time world champion announced an extension of his contract with Red Bull until the end of the 2030 season.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
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