Max Verstappen in Zandvoort: A lovely gesture for the Dutch fans

Although Zandvoort is set to host what will be the last Formula 1 race weekend for the time being, Max Verstappen has emphasised: For him, it doesn’t really feel like a farewell; after all, the circuit will remain in place and can continue to be used by other motorsport series and perhaps also for demonstration runs in Grand Prix cars.

Shortly before the start of the twelfth race weekend of the year in the Netherlands, however, the four-time world champion from the Red Bull Racing Team sounds a little wistful. He emphasises: “This will be a special World Championship round for me and the fans, as this is the last Dutch Grand Prix before it disappears from the World Championship calendar.”

And Verstappen speaks enthusiastically about his home race, which he has won three times and finished on the podium in second place on two further occasions: “I have so many fond memories of Zandvoort, and it has been a privilege and one of my many highlights to be able to race in front of my home crowd over the past few years.”

The 28-year-old, who will be racing with a special helmet design, insists that his performance will be all about his home crowd. “This week I’ll be lining up on the grid with a special helmet, the design of which is inspired by the famous Delft Blue pottery. It’s a very traditional and beautiful pattern and something very special for the final race,” he explains, adding: “The helmet is a tribute to the Dutch fans for their support over the years, and we hope to make them proud this weekend.”

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