How Verstappen defied home pressure and two downpours to win F1's Dutch GP
Twice on Sunday the heavens opened and threatened to curtail Max Verstappen's quest for a record-equalling ninth Formula 1 win in succession. But the unflappable Red Bull driver delivered his home fans the result they craved with a third consecutive Dutch Grand Prix win, as he kicked off the second half of 2023 in much the same vein he finished the first leg
Ever-looming rain clouds were the biggest indicator that summer was truly over. A distinct back-to-school vibe permeated the Dutch Grand Prix weekend, as hints of lethargy around the Formula 1 paddock were invariably shaken off once it came down to business.
On Max Verstappen’s home turf, the story of the weekend was about one driver. The two-time champion has been credited with the surge of interest that led to the Dutch GP’s reinstatement to the F1 calendar after a 35-year hiatus, the 17,000-strong population of Zandvoort bolstered by hundreds of thousands for one weekend a year. Those expecting a sun-drenched beach trip to extend their summer holidays, however, would receive precipitation upon their parade.
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