Formula 1
British Grand Prix 2024 Review: Hamilton is Back on The Top Step
![British Grand Prix 2024 Review: Hamilton is Back on The Top Step](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/M448520.jpg)
Lewis Hamilton’s first Formula 1 win in 945 days was the highlight of this year’s rain-affected British Grand Prix. However, the weekend was packed with numerous plotlines and announcements. Here are the biggest stories that emerged from this year’s event at Silverstone.
![Winning moment for Hamilton (Image: formula 1)](https://c.ndtvimg.com/2024-07/3pt2keeg_lewis-hamilton_625x300_08_July_24.jpeg)
Despite the usual jabs about a “classic British summer,” the 2024 British Grand Prix weekend was besieged by unseasonably cold and wet weather. It felt more like a reluctant farewell to winter rather than a sun-drenched July. While the fans who left their coats at home might have found the conditions less than ideal, the sporadic downpours added a layer of unpredictability and excitement to the Silverstone race. Victory seemed within reach for multiple drivers throughout the 52-lap contest, with all three British racers leading at different points. In a fitting finale to his Mercedes career, Lewis Hamilton clinched his ninth Silverstone win, adding another emotional chapter to his storied history at the circuit. This year’s Northamptonshire visit offered more than just racing thrills; the driver market buzzed with activity, rivaling the drama of an upcoming F1 film. Here’s a deep dive into everything we learned from the 2024 British Grand Prix weekend.
McLaren Dominates FP1 as Rain and Rookie Debuts Mark Opening Day at Silverstone
The opening day of track action at the 2024 British Grand Prix saw McLaren dominate the first practice session, with Red Bull notably absent from the top times. Lando Norris led FP1 with a 1m27.420s, followed by Lance Stroll for Aston Martin with a 1m27.554s. The session kicked off under typical British weather, with spots of rain delaying the track’s rubbering in.
Noteworthy moments included Yuki Tsunoda’s early spin into the Luffield gravel, limiting his laps to just five, and Oscar Piastri’s late pit stop due to a fuel cell problem. Additionally, four rookies made their appearances: Ollie Bearman at Haas, Jack Doohan at Alpine, Franco Colapinto at Williams, and Isack Hadjar in Perez’s RB20. This intriguing start was set for an exciting and unpredictable weekend at Silverstone.
Verstappen’s Struggles and McLaren’s Surge Highlight Rain-Interrupted FP2 at Silverstone
In the second practice session of the 2024 British Grand Prix, Max Verstappen initially showed promise on the medium tyres, setting the fastest lap with a 1m27.831s. However, as the session progressed, the Red Bull team made a strategic decision to switch Verstappen to soft tyres earlier than planned due to the threat of rain. This deviation from the norm saw Verstappen attempt a qualifying simulation, but an oversteer snap exiting Becketts forced him to abandon his lap.
As other teams adhered to their usual run plans, Charles Leclerc briefly topped the timesheets on mediums before Nico Hulkenberg’s surprising leap into contention for Haas. The McLaren duo then took control, with Oscar Piastri initially leading before Lando Norris clocked the fastest time of 1m26.549s. Sergio Perez slotted into third, 0.434s behind Norris, in a late run.
Verstappen’s second qualifying attempt on new softs was also cut short due to an oversteer moment, and as the session transitioned to long runs, the anticipated rain finally arrived, curtailing the action.
Data analysis revealed that Verstappen’s lower position in the FP2 standings was partly due to changing conditions, with rising wind and temperature making it harder for subsequent runners. Despite this, the increased track rubbering benefited his rivals. Red Bull’s RB20 excelled in high-speed sections but struggled with balance through Silverstone’s varied cornering demands, losing significant time in low-speed areas.
Overall, in FP2, with McLaren’s strong performance hinting at a potential Verstappen vs. Norris showdown and Red Bull working to fine-tune their setup for the challenging circuit.
Mercedes Dominate Wet FP3 as Rain Adds Drama to British Grand Prix Weekend
George Russell and Lewis Hamilton led a Mercedes one-two during a wet and dramatic third practice session at the 2024 British Grand Prix, outperforming McLaren’s Friday pace-setter, Lando Norris. Overnight heavy rainfall turned Silverstone into a challenging sodden track, requiring drivers to rely heavily on Pirelli’s intermediate tyres.
The session began with Haas driver Kevin Magnussen setting a cautious initial time of 1m54.798s, significantly slower than Norris’s Friday benchmark. Max Verstappen experienced a dramatic spin at the exit of Brooklands, while Pierre Gasly lost control under braking for Club, beaching his car in the gravel and causing a red flag.
Despite these challenges, Mercedes showcased their wet-weather prowess, with Russell leading the session and Hamilton close behind. Norris continued to show strong form, staying within striking distance of the Mercedes duo, suggesting that McLaren could be serious contenders for the rest of the weekend.
As the session progressed, drivers gradually adjusted to the conditions, with times steadily improving, even with Max nailing a perfect 360-degree spin on the track. The wet track leveled the playing field, turning strategy and tire management into crucial factors for qualifying and race day. With weather continuing to play a major role, the British Grand Prix was shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle at the storied Silverstone circuit.
Russell clinches Pole in Thrilling Wet-Dry British Grand Prix Qualifying
George Russell secured pole position at the 2024 British Grand Prix, ahead of teammate Lewis Hamilton and McLaren’s Lando Norris, after a nail-biting one-hour qualifying session. The session, divided into three segments with five cars being knocked out in Q1 and Q2 before the top-10 shootout in Q3, saw changing weather conditions adding an extra layer of drama.
Q1
The session kicked off in damp conditions, with Max Verstappen initially setting the pace on intermediate tyres with a 1m37.518s. As the track dried, Hamilton improved to 1m37.134s. A crucial turning point came when Red Bull’s Sergio Perez spun off at Copse, causing a red flag with 7m30s remaining.
Once the session resumed, drivers switched to slicks, though heavy rain loomed nearby. Verstappen went off at Copse but managed to navigate through the gravel, sustaining floor damage but avoiding a spin. Oscar Piastri then led with a 1m30.895s as a brief shower hit, but the track dried again for the final laps. Hamilton topped the timesheets with a 1m29.547s, followed by Russell and the Ferraris of Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz. Piastri dropped to sixth. Eliminated in Q1 were Valtteri Bottas, Kevin Magnussen, Esteban Ocon, Perez, and Pierre Gasly.
Q2
Oscar Piastri set the early pace in Q2 with a 1m26.945s, but the final runs were decisive. Lando Norris posted a 1m26.559s, besting Russell by 0.164s. Knocked out at this stage were Leclerc, Logan Sargeant, Yuki Tsunoda, Zhou Guanyu, and Daniel Ricciardo.
Q3
In the first runs of Q3, Russell led with a 1m26.024s, narrowly ahead of Norris, Hamilton, Piastri, and Verstappen. On the final runs, Hamilton momentarily took provisional pole with a 1m25.990s, but Russell reclaimed the top spot with a blistering 1m25.819s. Norris aborted his final lap after a minor mistake, settling for third place. Verstappen managed fourth, followed by Piastri, Nico Hulkenberg, Sainz, Lance Stroll, Alex Albon, and Fernando Alonso.
This qualifying session, marked by rapidly changing weather conditions and strategic tire choices. Russell’s pole position, secured under immense pressure, highlighted Mercedes’ strength and adaptability. While McLaren’s strong showing suggested that they will be formidable contenders throughout the weekend.
![Qualifying P1, P2 and P3](https://www.silverstone.co.uk/sites/default/files/styles/article_crop/public/images/XPB_1292815_HiRes%20copy.jpg?h=9d3d065c)
Hamilton Claims Record-Breaking Ninth British Grand Prix Victory in Thrilling Silverstone Race
Lewis Hamilton achieved a historic ninth British Grand Prix victory at Silverstone, holding off a determined challenge from Lando Norris. In a race marked by changing weather conditions and strategic pit stops. The win, Hamilton’s first since the 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, was an emotional and monumental moment for the Mercedes driver and his team.
![British Grand Prix 2024 Review: Hamilton is Back on The Top Step](https://images.ps-aws.com/c?url=https%3A%2F%2Fd3cm515ijfiu6w.cloudfront.net%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F07%2F07161838%2Fbritish-grand-prix-2024-start-planetf1-1320x742.jpg)
The race began with pole-sitter George Russell leading the way. An intense battle soon unfolded between the Mercedes duo and the McLaren pair of Norris and Oscar Piastri. As the weather fluctuated, teams had to navigate the tricky switch between intermediate and slick tyres. Hamilton capitalized on the conditions, pitting for slicks one lap before Norris, who also faced a slow pit stop, allowing Hamilton to take the lead.
Mid-Race Drama and Strategic Mastery
Russell’s strong start ended in disappointment as he retired due to a water system issue. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen made a late surge to snatch P2 from Norris. Hamilton, however, maintained his position at the front, showcasing his skill and experience to secure the win. The Mercedes driver managed to hold off Norris and a charging Verstappen, crossing the finish line to the delight of the home crowd.
Final Standings and Key Performances
Norris secured a well-deserved third place, while Piastri finished fourth, reflecting McLaren’s strong performance throughout the weekend. Carlos Sainz took fifth place, followed by Nico Hulkenberg in sixth, delivering a solid result for Haas. Lance Stroll and Fernando Alonso secured points for Aston Martin in seventh and eighth, respectively, with Alex Albon finishing ninth for Williams. Yuki Tsunoda rounded out the top ten.
Valtteri Bottas led the Kick Sauber team in 15th, while Esteban Ocon managed 16th for Alpine. Sergio Perez had another challenging race, ending 17th, with Zhou Guanyu finishing 18th for Kick Sauber. Pierre Gasly and Russell were the only retirees, with Gasly suffering a gearbox issue.
A Historic Victory and Emotional Moment
Hamilton’s win was a record-breaking ninth victory at the British Grand Prix, making him the most successful driver in the event’s history. The victory was an emotional one for Hamilton, who expressed his gratitude to his team and fans, acknowledging their unwavering support and hard work. “It means a lot to get this one,” Hamilton said over the radio, reflecting on the significance of his achievement.
“I can’t stop crying! It’s been since 2021, every day getting up, trying to fight, to train, to put my mind to the task and work as hard as I can with this amazing team. This is my last race here at the British Grand Prix with this team, so I wanted to win this so much for them, because I love them, I appreciate them so much, all the hard work they’ve been putting in all over these years.
-Hamilton
The 2024 British Grand Prix was a thrilling and unpredictable race. Showcasing the best of Formula 1 with strategic brilliance, driver skill, and the ever-present element of weather drama. Hamilton’s historic victory will be remembered as a highlight of the season. Further cementing his legacy as one of the sport’s greats.
Anticipation Builds for the Hungarian Grand Prix: The Next Challenge in the 2024 F1 Season
Following the excitement at Silverstone and the end of an amazing triper header, the 2024 Formula 1 season heads to the tight and twisty Hungaroring for the Hungarian Grand Prix, running from July 19th to July 21st. Known for its technical demands and minimal overtaking opportunities, this race will test the drivers’ precision and strategic acumen. With 6 different Winners in last 12 races, the contest has become interesting. The Budapest circuit’s challenging layout contrasts sharply with Silverstone’s high-speed nature, promising another thrilling chapter in the championship battle. Fans can expect intense practice sessions on Friday, a gripping qualifying round on Saturday, and an action-packed race on Sunday. As drivers navigate the intricate course in pursuit of victory.
Championship Standings after the race:
Verstappen extends his championship lead on top, while Perez slips to 6th and Piastri moves to 5th.
![British Grand Prix 2024 Review: Hamilton is Back on The Top Step](https://preview.redd.it/driver-standings-after-2024-british-grand-prix-v0-yzp32tvg35bd1.jpeg?auto=webp&s=0d010360427f2f7f90dc55800bf3aa27a2fb9824)
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Formula 1
Monza GP: F1 back at the Cathedral of Speed
![monza](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GWEoVykXQAAJuGE.jpeg)
The last time the F1 paddock went racing, we were treated with a dominant run of performance. The only difference was this that this time it was not Max Verstappen at the head of it. Lando Norris had a fantastic run of performance and became the measuring scale of performance. This week, at the Monza GP, we are expecting nothing less. What are all the expected news and what has happened since the last race weekend, catch it all in this F1 Race weekend preview.
TITLE FIGHT
The most significant change that has been seen in the second part of the season is how much the Championship fight has changed.
![Monza GP: F1 back at the Cathedral of Speed](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GV11QCKXAAAjxmm-1024x683.jpeg)
Max Verstappen currently sits at P1 with 295 points to his name, 70 points ahead of his nearest rival Norris. This looks a big gap for F1 standards but when you consider the massive development that Mclaren has undergone lately, its game on. On the Teams side of things, its close as ever. Redbull Racing are leading with just a 30 point buffer to Mclaren Racing, truly hinting at a fight incoming.
Ferrari in new colors
The crowd favourite for the weekend, Scuderia Ferrari, have revealed new suits and a tweaked livery for the Monza GP.
The Tifosi, as the Ferrari fans proudly call themselves, show up in huge numbers to suport their team every time. On the performance side, Ferrari have been doing better lately with Leclerc scoring a podium at the last race. They are currently sitting in P3, 34 points away from second placed Mclaren. Emotions are also up for Carlos Sainz, who is attending his last Monza GP in Ferrari colors.
Mercedes second seat about to be announced
Many sources have been hinting at a potential announcement of Mercedes protege Andrea Kimi Antonelli for the second seat at Mercedes F1.
![Monza GP: F1 back at the Cathedral of Speed](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/M457301-1-1024x683.jpg)
In other news, Kimi is also going to take a go in FP1 in Russell’s car. All this seat time will help him get familiar with the know-how of F1. Both the current Mercedes drivers have been full of praise for the Italian, with Hamilton saying he’s excited to see the youngster progress.
Renault personnel to protest at Monza GP
Renault employees are about to protest against the plans of the administration to shut down its F1 operations.
There is also about to be a peaceful protest in the grandstands of the Monza GP. These protests are coming up as the rumors of Alpine switching to Mercedes engines is floating. Also, there has been many personnel changes in the Alpine administration, with most recent change being the stepping down of Bruno Famin, the Team prinicipal of Alpine.
Williams make the change, Sargeant out of F1
Perhaps the biggest bombshell that has dropped this weekend is Williams dropping Logan Sargeant for the rest of the season with immediate effect.
He is being replaced by William Driver academy driver Franco Colapinto. Colapinto was participating in F2 till yet and is P6 in the F2 Championship. With Carlos Sainz set to join Williams for the next season, this news surprised us fans as Colapinto is being given the seat just for a period of 9 races. One person that will be elated will be Colapinto himself, ofcourse. After Sargeant, he has got the perfect opportunity to settle and prove himself at the world stage. Now whether he manages to make full use of this opportnity will be a wait-and-watch affair.
When and Where to watch
All the sessions will streamed on F1TV and Fancode in India.
![Monza GP: F1 back at the Cathedral of Speed](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/image-9-819x1024.jpg)
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Formula 1
Dutch GP 2024: Norris triumphs in a thrilling race at Zandvoort
![Dutch GP 2024: Norris triumphs in a thrilling race at Zandvoort](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GV1dVKfXgAEYXNt.jpeg)
The 2024 Dutch GP saw exciting action, unpredictable strategies, and unexpected podium finishes, making it one of the most memorable races of the season. In front of his home crowd, Max Verstappen faced intense competition but couldn’t secure the win, leaving Lando Norris to take the top step of the podium. Here’s a detailed look at how the weekend happened.
Drama Unfolds at Zandvoort
The 2024 Formula 1 season continued its thrilling run as the drivers headed to the tight and technical Circuit Zandvoort. With its narrow, undulating track, this race was expected to challenge both driver skill and team strategy. While Verstappen, racing in front of his home fans, was the favorite, McLaren’s rising form and Lando Norris’ pace posed a serious threat. Rainy conditions added to the unpredictability, making strategy a key player throughout the weekend.
Free Practice 1: A McLaren Statement
Lando Norris set the fastest time in the first practice session (FP1) of the 2024 Dutch Grand Prix, navigating tricky mixed conditions to clock a 1:12.947. The session was interrupted by a brief rain shower, making tyre strategy and timing crucial for all teams.
![Dutch GP](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GVqRiZ6WcAAET_y-1024x576.jpeg)
Max Verstappen finished just 0.130s behind Norris in second place, while Lewis Hamilton showed promising pace, securing third with a time of 1:13.063. The damp track early on led to some drivers struggling with grip, with a few minor off-track moments, including one for Charles Leclerc. The ever-changing weather at Zandvoort added an element of unpredictability, setting the stage for what could be a thrilling weekend.
Russell leads close-fought FP2 as Teams fine-tune setup for Dutch GP
George Russell topped the timesheets in a competitive second practice session at the Dutch GP, clocking a best lap of 1:11.965. The Mercedes driver narrowly edged out Oscar Piastri, who finished just 0.137s behind, while Lewis Hamilton secured third with a 1:12.149, making it a strong session for the Silver Arrows.
Conditions remained dry throughout, allowing teams to focus on race simulations and tire setups after a mixed-weather FP1. Max Verstappen, the home favorite, ended FP2 in fourth, just 0.237s off the pace. The session saw close margins, with the top six drivers within 0.3 seconds of each other, hinting at a tightly contested weekend ahead. Drivers and teams used this crucial hour to better their setups for Saturday’s qualifying, with multiple drivers expressing satisfaction with their car’s balance heading into the rest of the weekend.
Gasly tops eventful FP3 as Sargeant’s Crash halts session
Pierre Gasly set the fastest time in a dramatic FP3 at Zandvoort, posting a lap of 1:12.305. The Alpine driver outpaced home favorite Max Verstappen, who finished second by just 0.069s, while Sergio Perez secured third place for Red Bull.
![Dutch GP 2024: Norris triumphs in a thrilling race at Zandvoort](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/image-8-1.jpg)
The session was marred by a heavy crash from Logan Sargeant, who lost control at Turn 2 and slammed into the barriers, bringing out the red flag. Fortunately, the Williams driver walked away unscathed, but the accident shortened the session, with several drivers missing crucial setup time. Despite the disruption, teams managed to gather vital data ahead of qualifying, with Gasly’s performance offering a glimpse of his potential in the upcoming session.
Qualifying: Russell Shines, Norris on Pole
Lando Norris delivered a stunning performance to claim pole position at the 2024 Dutch GP, outpacing reigning champion Max Verstappen and his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri. In a thrilling qualifying session at Zandvoort, Norris’ remarkable lap secured his second career pole, setting the stage for an exciting showdown in Sunday’s race.
Q1:
The first qualifying session of the 2024 Dutch GP kicked off with the usual intensity, as drivers scrambled to set competitive times. Sergio Perez managed to top the timing sheets with a strong lap, despite some concerns over a potential impeding incident with Lewis Hamilton. The session saw several close calls, and unfortunately, Daniel Ricciardo was one of the notable names who missed out on advancing to Q2 by just over a tenth of a second. Joining him on the sidelines were Esteban Ocon, Valtteri Bottas, Zhou Guanyu, and Logan Sargeant. Sargeant was unable to participate after crashing in FP3, bringing an early end to his qualifying hopes.
Q2:
Lando Norris dominated Q2 with an impressive lap, beating his McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri by a razor-thin margin of just 0.009 seconds. However, the session wasn’t as kind to others. Carlos Sainz and Lewis Hamilton both failed to make it into the top 10 shootout. Sainz, in particular, was edged out in the final moments as late improvements from Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon knocked him out of contention. Yuki Tsunoda, Nico Hulkenberg, and Kevin Magnussen also found themselves eliminated, setting the stage for a tense final session.
Q3:
In the final showdown for pole position, Lando Norris put in a remarkable performance to secure the top spot with a blistering lap of 1:09.673. This stunning effort saw him beat local hero Max Verstappen by over three tenths of a second, a surprising margin given Verstappen’s usual dominance at his home circuit. Oscar Piastri capped off a strong session for McLaren by securing third place, while George Russell managed to take fourth. Sergio Perez slotted into fifth, followed by Charles Leclerc in sixth and Fernando Alonso in seventh, rounding off a thrilling and unpredictable qualifying session at Zandvoort.
Race
In a race brimming with drama, McLaren’s Lando Norris secured a commanding victory at the 2024 Dutch Grand Prix, shattering Max Verstappen’s unbeaten home streak in front of a stunned Zandvoort crowd. With sharp strategies, bold overtakes, and varying pit stop tactics, the race was one to remember.
![Dutch GP 2024: Norris triumphs in a thrilling race at Zandvoort](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/image-3.jpeg)
McLaren’s Moment: Norris dominates
After a steady qualifying session, Lando Norris lined up on the front row but quickly found himself in a chase as Verstappen jumped into the lead at the start. However, Norris remained focused, slowly chipping away at the reigning champion’s lead. By Lap 18, a daring DRS-assisted move saw Norris’s pass Verstappen and take the lead, much to the surprise of the Dutch fans.
From there, the McLaren driver never looked back, stretching his lead to a significant 22.8 seconds by the time the chequered flag waved. The team’s flawless strategy and his expert tire management allowed him to control the pace and seal his victory, making it one of the most significant wins of his career.
Oscar Piastri once again demonstrated his talent, keeping his McLaren in contention for much of the race. After pitting from the lead on Lap 33, Piastri found himself in a fierce battle with Leclerc for third. Though he couldn’t quite get past the Ferrari, Piastri secured a commendable fourth place finish, adding to McLaren’s strong showing.
Verstappen stumbles in front of home crowd
Max Verstappen, looking to extend his dominance at Zandvoort to a fourth consecutive year, initially seemed in control. He managed the early stages well, keeping Norris at bay and navigating the tight corners of the Zandvoort circuit with ease. However, Norris’ relentless pressure coupled with Red Bull’s sub-optimal strategy saw Verstappen fall behind.
Despite switching to hard tires on Lap 27, Verstappen couldn’t regain the upper hand as Norris steadily pulled away. Verstappen was left lamenting handling issues over the radio, commenting that the car “doesn’t respond to my inputs.” In the end, he finished second, a distant 22.8 seconds behind Norris—an uncharacteristic result for the Dutch champion at his home race. Horner told Sky Sports F1-
“Congrats to Lando and McLaren, their car was in a different league today, We did everything we could, Max converted P2 into a lead, but you could see their pace was in a different league.”
Ferrari’s Resilience—Leclerc Grabs the Final Podium Spot
Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc had a rollercoaster weekend but ended it with a podium finish. After an impressive start, Leclerc fought his way into third, fending off a charging Oscar Piastri in the closing laps. His performance was one of determination and defense, holding onto the final podium place after a challenging race, a solid P3, a result that the Monegasque admitted he had not expected.
“[I’m] very, very surprised,” Leclerc explained immediately after the Grand Prix. “I’m not very often happy with P3, but I think with today’s race we can be extremely happy with the job we’ve done on a difficult weekend for the team.”
Meanwhile, teammate Carlos Sainz put on a brilliant display of overtaking, muscling past Sergio Perez’s Red Bull to take fifth place after a late-race battle. Ferrari’s strategic calls and aggressive driving earned them vital points as they continue to fight for constructors’ honors.
![Dutch GP 2024: Norris triumphs in a thrilling race at Zandvoort](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GV1oxrvXwAEAr8_.jpeg)
Mercedes Struggles but Secures Points
For Mercedes, the Dutch GP was mixed. Lewis Hamilton, starting from a compromised grid position, fought his way through the field with a series of impressive overtakes, including one on Nico Hulkenberg at Turn 1. Despite struggling for straight-line speed, Hamilton made it into the top ten, finishing seventh after switching to soft tires late in the race to claim the fastest lap.
George Russell had a similarly challenging Dutch GP but managed to secure sixth, right behind Sainz and Perez. Russell’s consistent performance under pressure showed Mercedes’ persistence, even if they weren’t able to challenge for the podium this weekend.
The Midfield Battles – Gasly and Alonso Fight On
Behind him, the Alpine of Pierre Gasly and Aston Martin’s Fernando Alonso had a fierce scrap in the midfield.
Gasly’s daring moves earned him ninth place, while Alonso rounded out the points in tenth. The midfield battles were intense, with several wheel-to-wheel moments providing excitement throughout the race.
Drama and Disappointment in the lower order
Not everyone had a successful race at Zandvoort. Hulkenberg’s early momentum faded as he dropped out of the points, finishing in 11th place. The Haas driver could not keep pace with the top ten after a poor tyre strategy and a series of pit stops disrupted his rhythm.
Lance Stroll endured a penalty-ridden race, including a five-second pit lane speed penalty that saw him fall to 13th place after what could have been a points finish. Meanwhile, Williams’ Alex Albon, who started from the back of the grid due to a floor irregularity, finished just outside the points in 14th place after a commendable recovery drive.
At the back, Alfa Romeo’s weekend went from bad to worse, as both Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu finished two laps down, compounding the team’s struggles at the foot of the constructors’ standings.
The 2024 Dutch GP saw McLaren firmly establish itself as a force to be reckoned with, as Lando Norris took a commanding victory at the Dutch GP. Max Verstappen may have missed out on winning his home race, but his consistent performance keeps him well-positioned in the championship. For Mercedes and Ferrari, it was a weekend of mixed fortunes, with Russell showing flashes of brilliance but ultimately unable to challenge the McLarens and Red Bulls at the front. As the season moves forward, the rivalry between these top teams promises more electrifying races.
Next Stop: Monza—The Temple of Speed Awaits
The 2024 Formula 1 season heads to Monza for the Italian Grand Prix from August 30 to September 1. Known for its blistering speeds and passionate Tifosi, Monza’s high-speed straights and tight chicanes will push drivers and teams to the limit as the championship battle heats up.
Championship Standings after the race:
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Formula 1
2024 Dutch GP: Verstappen’s home advantage and other F1 developments
![2024 Dutch GP: Verstappen’s home advantage and other F1 developments](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GU9SffsXMAENqmJ.jpeg)
As the F1 circus rolls into Zandvoort for the 2024 Dutch GP, all eyes are on Max Verstappen, who returns to his home circuit with something to prove. After a season that has shattered expectations, we’ve witnessed unprecedented competitiveness across the grid. With seven drivers claiming victory in the last 14 races, the 2024 Dutch GP presents itself as another opportunity for a new winner, or whether Verstappen’s home advantage will come in handy? Read about it all in the weekend preview from DRC.
Another Potential Record for Verstappen?
For fans, it’s been a refreshing change of pace from Red Bull’s previous dominance. Teams like Ferrari, Mercedes, and McLaren are all stepping up to the challenge. Verstappen, the reigning world champion, finds himself in unfamiliar territory, with his last win dating back to Barcelona.
![2024 dutch GP](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1000027553-1024x576.jpg)
But if there’s one race Max Verstappen will be particularly determined to win, it’s the 2024 Dutch GP. As his home event, Verstappen is unlikely to let up, and for Red Bull, being competitive at Zandvoort is a must. Since the middle of the 2022 season, Verstappen has embarked on an extraordinary run of dominance, shattering records along the way. This weekend, he has the opportunity to add another milestone to his name. A win would make him only the fourth driver in F1 history to win their home race four times in a row, joining Lewis Hamilton, Jim Clark, and Juan Manuel Fangio.
Are Red Bull developmental plans & second seat going haywire?
Last year, Red Bull capitalized not only on their continuous upgrades but also on the struggles of their main rivals, Mercedes and Ferrari. However, this season is a different story, as both teams have addressed their issues over the winter and are now back in contention for race wins.
![2024 Dutch GP: Verstappen’s home advantage and other F1 developments](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/GTlUzmRWMAAcEV6.jpeg)
Red Bull’s latest innovations have provided some aerodynamic gains but have not delivered the expected performance boost. Technical Director Pierre Wache has openly acknowledged these challenges.
We improved compared to last year, without a doubt,” he told Autosport.
“But we didn’t deliver what we expected in some areas.
A significant concern for the reigning champions is that they have already introduced several major update packages, while other top teams, particularly McLaren, still have substantial upgrades to come.
Red Bull’s challenges this season extend beyond car performance. Perez’s recent drop from 2nd to 7th in the final race before the summer break has highlighted his difficulty in keeping pace with rivals from McLaren, Ferrari, and Mercedes. Despite this, Red Bull has opted not to replace him, instead focusing on his discomfort with the RB20, particularly his complaints about a lack of grip.
To help Perez regain his early-season form, Red Bull plans to reintroduce older RB20 components. However, with McLaren and Mercedes improving and Ferrari set to introduce significant upgrades, even a return to form might not be enough.
Ferrari prepares for crucial upgrades at 2024 Dutch GP
At the start of the season, Ferrari emerged as Red Bull’s closest challenger. However, as McLaren and Mercedes have made significant strides, Ferrari’s decline has been largely self-inflicted. The upgrades introduced to the SF-24 in Spain failed to deliver the expected results, with the increased downforce reintroducing bouncing issues and forcing the team into setup compromises.
![2024 Dutch GP: Verstappen’s home advantage and other F1 developments](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1000027562-1024x683.jpg)
Ferrari has worked to mitigate these issues in recent races, and further corrections are expected at the 2024 Dutch GP. Changes to the rear suspension and diffuser should provide a more stable baseline, allowing Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz to unlock greater performance and build confidence. However, the last few months have been tough for Ferrari, both on and off the track.
In addition to their development struggles, Ferrari has lost key personnel, most notably former technical director Enrico Cardile. As they search for his replacement, rumors suggest former Mercedes technical director Mike Elliott is being considered. This uncertainty, coupled with Ferrari’s lag in securing top talent like Adrian Newey, raises concerns about the team’s direction not only for the remainder of this season but also as the new regulations approach in 2025.
All Mighty McLaren
McLaren’s rise as a Championship contender this season has been marked by impressive performances from Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, both of whom claimed their maiden F1 victories.
![2024 Dutch GP: Verstappen’s home advantage and other F1 developments](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1000027563-1024x683.jpg)
The turning point came with a major upgrade package introduced in Miami, which catapulted the team to the front and erased Red Bull’s early advantage. However, despite their speed, McLaren has been hampered by strategic mistakes and operational issues, limiting their success and leaving them trailing Max Verstappen by significant margins in the Drivers’ standings.
Looking ahead, McLaren has a sequence of critical upgrades in the pipeline, which Team Principal Andrea Stella believes could boost their competitiveness in the latter half of the season.
“I’m surprised that we’ve been so competitive, considering that from Miami onwards, we haven’t actually brought trackside many new parts,”
Stella remarked. “Obviously, the Miami upgrade was big, but there’s some upgrades that will come in the second part of the season.”
With fresh upgrades on the horizon, McLaren is in a strong position to continue pushing Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship, even as they face the challenge of closing the gap to Verstappen and contending with Ferrari and Mercedes.
Mercedes’ Future: Upgrades and Talent Pipeline
At the start of the 2024 season, Mercedes faced genuine concerns with the W15, which struggled with unpredictability and balance issues. However, the introduction of a new front wing in Monaco, along with other changes, significantly improved the car’s stability. This breakthrough allowed Mercedes to overcome earlier correlation issues and see the performance gains from the wind tunnel translate onto the track. With confidence growing, the team is poised for a final push of upgrades before shifting focus to the 2025 season.
Meanwhile, Mercedes has made Kimi Antonelli a priority for their future lineup.
![2024 Dutch GP: Verstappen’s home advantage and other F1 developments](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1000027565-1024x683.jpg)
The 17-year-old’s impressive performances in Formula 2, including a dominant victory at Silverstone, have bolstered his position as a potential F1 driver. Despite earlier speculation linking more established names like Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz to Mercedes, the team is now set on integrating Antonelli into their plans for the 2025 season. Toto Wolff has highlighted Antonelli as a key focus, especially in light of the surprising contract announcement of Lewis Hamilton and the potential for instability at Red Bull.
Weather and Track information
The track in use this weekend is the Zandvoort circuit. The circuit remained a staple until 1985, before its much-anticipated return in 2021 after a 35-year hiatus. Located 35 km west of Amsterdam, Zandvoort is a 4.259 km (2.646 mi) track set in the North Sea dunes. Known for its challenging layout, Zandvoort features fast, sweeping corners like Scheivlak and the famous “Tarzanbocht” hairpin at the end of the main straight.
![2024 Dutch GP: Verstappen’s home advantage and other F1 developments](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/image-4-1024x576.png)
Tarzanbocht, with its unique camber, offers excellent overtaking opportunities. The circuit’s elevation changes, including a peak difference of 8.9 meters (29 feet), and highly banked turns like Turn 3 (19-degree incline) and Turns 13/14 (18-degree bank), add to the technical demands of the track, making it a true driver’s challenge.
The weather throughout the weekend is predicted as follows:
![2024 Dutch GP: Verstappen’s home advantage and other F1 developments](https://desiracingco.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/1000027564-1-1024x576.avif)
When and Where to watch
All the sessions will be streamed on F1 TV and Fancode.
The schedule is as follows:
Friday – 23 August
Practice 1 – 16:00 – 17:00
Practice 2 – 19:30 – 20:30
Saturday – 24 August
Practice 3 – 15:00 – 16:00
Qualifying – 18:30 – 19:30
Sunday – 25 August
Race – 18:30
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