Max second in Zandvoort FP1

Published on 23 August 2024 by Stefan Meens

Max Verstappen opened the second half of his 2024 campaign by setting the second fastest time in the opening practice session of the Dutch Grand Prix. McLaren’s Lando Norris clocked the quickest time around the iconic Zandvoort circuit. Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes, completed the top three.

The teams and drivers are faced with challenging conditions upon their arrival at Zandvoort as heavy winds sweep the circuit and rain remains a constant threat. The first drivers to head out, do so on the rain Pirelli tyres and return back to the pits after their installation laps. Ten minutes in, all cars are back in the garages.

A quarter of an hour into the session, Charles Leclerc is the first name on the timing boards. Only two other drivers have clocked a time when FP1 reaches the halfway point.

In the second half of the session, the track is drying and a bunch of drivers head out on the intermediate tyres. Despite the conditions improving and the DRS being enabled, the circuit remains challenging with Max spinning his RB19 in the Hans Ernst chicane. Thankfully, the barriers and gravel traps are avoided and the local hero can continue on his way.

In the final ten minutes, the slick compound makes an appearance with the McLarens leading the way. Max snatches P1 on his last timed lap, but ultimately has to settle for second with Norris clocking the best lap of the session on his final attempt.

Results first free practice Netherlands: