Max Verstappen may have stolen the spotlight with his historic ninth consecutive win at the Dutch Grand Prix, but he wasn’t the only one deserving of praise. Let’s take a closer look at some of the notable winners and losers from the gripping race weekend.
Winner: Pierre Gasly
Within the chaos and uncertainty, Pierre Gasly emerged as a symbol of triumph for the Alpine team. Despite a challenging qualifying session, Gasly delivered a stellar performance and secured a remarkable third-place finish. This marked his first podium since the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, and it undoubtedly brought respite to Alpine amidst a tumultuous season. Overcoming a five-second penalty along the way, Gasly’s determined drive showcased his skill and resilience, earning him a well-deserved place on the podium.
Winner: Fernando Alonso
Flying under the radar during qualifying, Fernando Alonso saved his best for Sunday’s race. Starting from fifth position, the experienced driver showcased his trust in the car and claimed an impressive second-place finish behind Verstappen. Aston Martin will benefit greatly from this podium result as they aim to regain their earlier season form. Alonso’s performance serves as a reminder of his enduring talent and his ability to contribute to the team’s resurgence.
Loser: Logan Sargeant
For Logan Sargeant, the Dutch Grand Prix didn’t go as planned. After becoming the first American since Michael Andretti to start in the top ten of an F1 race, Sargeant’s day took a turn for the worse. Sliding off the track and into the wall early on, his race was cut short, ending in disappointment. With the pressure to deliver and secure his seat for the 2024 season, Sargeant encountered yet another setback, making it a frustrating outing for the American driver.
Loser: Charles Leclerc
Charles Leclerc experienced a disastrous Sunday after a challenging Saturday. A blunder during an early pit stop, coupled with front-wing damage, hampered the Ferrari driver’s progress. Despite their efforts to salvage the situation, Leclerc found himself slipping down the field and eventually retired after battling with Liam Lawson. F1TV aptly described his day as “41 laps of pain,” indicating the tremendous disappointment for Leclerc and his team.
Winner: Lewis Hamilton
Starting from 13th place due to a disappointing qualifying session, Lewis Hamilton faced an uphill battle at Zandvoort. However, the seven-time world champion demonstrated his skill and determination, overtaking rivals and securing a hard-earned sixth-place finish. Considering the lack of overtaking opportunities at this track, Hamilton’s recovery showcased his adaptability and resilience. Mercedes, in turn, can take solace in this result as they navigate a changing landscape in Formula 1.
Loser: Zhou Guanyu
Zhou Guanyu faced a challenging day that ended prematurely due to a crash at Turn 1. Despite briefly running at the front of the field, his hopes for a strong result were dashed by the rain and the subsequent incident. With the opportunity to score points slipping away, Zhou’s aspirations for a memorable Grand Prix were abruptly cut short.
Winner: Alex Albon
Alex Albon’s decision to stay out on slick tires amidst wet conditions initially raised eyebrows. However, the strategic move paid off as the track dried, allowing Albon to persevere on the soft compound for over 40 laps. His determined effort resulted in a commendable eighth-place finish, propelling Williams to a solitary seventh place in the Constructors’ standings. This achievement highlights the significant progress made by the team compared to the previous season.
Winner: Max Verstappen
Standing tall amidst a whirlwind of challenges, Max Verstappen claimed victory once again, etching his name in F1 history. With his ninth consecutive win, he now shares the record with Sebastian Vettel. Verstappen’s remarkable ability to overcome adversity, coupled with his unyielding drive, solidifies his status as one of the sport’s top contenders. As the F1 circus heads to Monza, the “Cathedral of Speed,” all eyes will be on Verstappen to see if he can set a new record with ten straight victories.
The Dutch Grand Prix provided a thrilling display of triumphs and tribulations. From Gasly’s triumphant return to the podium to Hamilton’s tenacious climb up the ranks, each driver’s performance showcased the unmatched excitement of Formula 1. As the dust settles at Zandvoort, the question remains: who will seize the glory at the next iconic venue on the calendar? Only time will tell.
The Business Press 