Max Verstappen starts race weekend in Zandvoort with first free practice
The Formula 1 weekend in Zandvoort has officially begun. On Friday morning, the drivers took to the track for the first time during the opening free practice session for the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix. For the many Dutch fans in the grandstands, this is the highlight of the year, with all eyes focused on the performance of the drivers on the challenging dune circuit.
The first free practice session is an important moment for the teams to set up the car for the rest of the weekend. During this session, the drivers gathered valuable data on asphalt grip and tire wear in the corners of Zandvoort. Weather conditions played a major role in this, as the wind on the coast always presents an additional challenge for the aerodynamics of the Formula 1 cars.
Beyond the technical aspect, the atmosphere around the circuit is, as every year, very exuberant. Tens of thousands of fans in orange have come to the seaside town to cheer on their favorite drivers. The organization has taken extra measures to manage traffic around Zandvoort, as most visitors are arriving at the circuit by train or bicycle.
The coming days will be focused on qualifying and the final race on Sunday. The teams will now analyze the data from the first practice session to make the cars even faster. It promises to be an exciting weekend for Dutch motorsport fans, who are hoping for a great result for the home drivers.