After a well-deserved summer break, Formula 1 is preparing for the final Dutch GP at Zandvoort and thus the start of the second half of the season. Max Verstappen – once again the home hero – travels as a three-time winner to ‘his’ Zandvoort, where an extra intense sprint weekend awaits him next weekend. For the Dutchman, the farewell to Formula 1 on home soil carries an extra special significance.
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“We were able to relax a bit and recharge after the summer break,” Verstappen responded in an official press release. “I’m looking forward to immediately starting the race week in Zandvoort. It will be a special week for me and for the fans, because this is the last Dutch Grand Prix before it disappears from the calendar. I have built so many beautiful memories here in Zandvoort and it has been a privilege to race for my home crowd over the past years.”
Max Verstappen pays tribute with special helmet
The Red Bull driver has built an impressive track record since Formula 1 returned to Zandvoort in 2021. Verstappen won the first three editions in a row, experiencing several memorable weekends for his home crowd. For this special final edition, Verstappen has therefore had a special helmet designed. The design is inspired by traditional Delft blue pottery and serves as a tribute to Zandvoort and the Dutch fans who have massively supported him over the past years.
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“I’m going to race this weekend with my special helmet, the design of which is inspired by the famous Delft blue. This is a very traditional and beautiful pattern and something extra unique for the last race. The helmet is a tribute to the Dutch fans for their continued support over the years, so we hope to make them proud this weekend.” Given the recent results, the chance that Verstappen will have another dominant weekend at Zandvoort is small, although the predicted rain might play into his hands.
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Read everything about the Dutch GP in Zandvoort here
