Author: Barkha Roy
In a rain-soaked spectacle at the Dutch Grand Prix, Max Verstappen showed his unwavering dominance by taking his ninth consecutive Formula 1 victory, equalling Sebastian Vettel’s record from 2013. The Red Bull prodigy triumphed at the Zandvoort track, solidifying his status as a force to be reckoned with.
Another Alonso start to add to his highlights reel 🔥🤩#DutchGP @AstonMartinF1 pic.twitter.com/qBAiT0GJWt
– Formula 1 (@F1) August 28, 2023
Verstappen’s performance earned him his third consecutive victory from pole position. In the midst of a frantic race, veteran driver Fernando Alonso secured second place for Aston Martin and an additional bonus point for the fastest lap. Meanwhile, Alpine’s Pierre Gasly initially finished fourth, but due to a penalty for Sergio Perez – the other Red Bull driver – Gasly was promoted to third.
“Ahh ha, so happy, mate”
Fernando Alonso enjoyed his P2! 😊
Relive all the best team radio moments at Zandvoort 📻#DutchGP #F1
– Formula 1 (@F1) August 28, 2023
The Dutch Grand Prix was marked by its chaotic nature, with a late red flag that lasted 40 minutes after an accident involving Alfa Romeo’s Zhou Guanyu. Amid constantly changing weather conditions, tire changes became crucial strategic decisions, adding an unpredictable element to the race.
The competition resumed on lap 65 of 72 with Verstappen leading, followed by Alonso, Perez and Gasly. After a safety car period, Verstappen quickly took the lead, securing his 11th win in an extremely successful campaign. This achievement increased his lead over teammate Perez by an incredible 138 points.
An extraordinary race and a remarkable record-equalling win by @Max33Verstappen 😮#DutchGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/Ei2j9LxkfF
– Formula 1 (@F1) August 27, 2023
Verstappen’s win also extended Red Bull’s impressive winning streak to 14 in a row, dating back to last season. The 26-year-old driver, who already boasts an impressive 46 victories, is the fifth greatest winner in Formula 1 history. With only Alain Prost and Sebastian Vettel ahead of him in the record books, Verstappen has his sights set on more glory.
Total chaos! 😵#DutchGP #F1 pic.twitter.com/IeS7pVnxdP
– Formula 1 (@F1) August 27, 2023
The Dutch Grand Prix had its share of challenges. Ferrari faced another setback when Charles Leclerc retired due to damage to the floorboard, marking his third winless finish of the season. However, the real star of the day was undoubtedly the weather, which played its part in creating a dramatic scenario for Verstappen’s triumph.
Fernando gets absolutely splattered at the start 😂#DutchGP @FerrariTrento pic.twitter.com/RVgjadekgh
– Formula 1 (@F1) August 28, 2023
Despite the adverse conditions, a lively crowd of 105,000 cheered Verstappen on, braving the rain and wind to witness history unfold. Verstappen’s victory equalled Vettel’s record and showed his and Red Bull’s dominance this season. With the next race at Monza, Verstappen’s record-breaking streak looks set to continue, as does Red Bull’s quest for a clean sweep. As the season unfolds, Verstappen’s inexorable march towards a third title looks more and more likely.