The Dutch Grand Prix unfolded as one of the most thrilling and incident-packed races of the season, highlighting remarkable achievements for two rising stars in Formula 1. Oscar Piastri secured his first career Grand Slam in a commanding performance, while Isack Hadjar delighted fans with his maiden podium finish.
Starting from pole position, Australian driver Oscar Piastri took complete control of the race. Not only did he lead from the opening lights to the chequered flag, but he also set the fastest lap and dominated the event with precision. This performance marked Piastri’s ninth career win, equaling the tally of fellow Australian Mark Webber. His triumph also contributed to McLaren’s milestone 201st race victory and their fifth win at the Zandvoort circuit.
The race also saw Max Verstappen return to the podium, finishing second. This was a significant moment for the Red Bull driver, marking his first top-three finish since the Canadian Grand Prix. Impressively, Verstappen has now secured a podium in every Dutch Grand Prix he has contested—three wins and two second places—with this being his fifth consecutive podium at Zandvoort.
The standout rookie tale, however, was France’s Isack Hadjar, driving for Racing Bulls. At just 20 years, 11 months, and three days old, Hadjar clinched his first-ever podium, becoming the youngest French driver and the fifth youngest overall to achieve such a feat in Formula 1 history. This remarkable result also ended an Italian team podium drought dating back to the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, when fellow Frenchman Pierre Gasly finished third.
Tyre strategy played a pivotal role throughout the race, featuring all three Pirelli slick compounds. The majority of drivers launched on the Medium compound, with tactical variations between Soft and Hard tyres influencing stints and race pace. Pirelli’s Director of Motorsport, Mario Isola, highlighted how unpredictable the Grand Prix was, especially due to multiple Safety Car restarts which demanded exceptional tyre management and race craft. He praised drivers like Piastri who skillfully navigated the restarts, as well as the competitive balance the softer tyre compounds demonstrated compared to previous years.
Beyond the main event, the weekend also featured strong performances in the supporting categories. Notably, Dutch driver Maya Weug dominated the second race at Zandvoort in the junior formulae, showcasing the depth of emerging talent in motorsport.
In summary, the Dutch Grand Prix will be remembered not only for Oscar Piastri’s first Grand Slam achievement but also for Isack Hadjar’s breakthrough podium. These milestones highlight the influx of young talent invigorating the sport and promise exciting seasons ahead. Fans eagerly await how Piastri and Hadjar build on these successes as the championship heads towards its final rounds in Singapore and Las Vegas.
