Dutch Grand Prix: Verstappen wins home grand prix, equals Sebastian Vettel record

Max Verstappen showed no signs of slowing down in the first Formula One race after the summer break, easing to a comfortable win in the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort to extend his lead atop the Championship standings and equal the record for most consecutive wins.

Verstappen was untouchable in the first half of the season and put together a remarkable run of eight consecutive wins before the summer break. With an opportunity to equal Sebastian Vettel’s record of nine consecutive wins on the line, the Dutchman took pole position for the third successive year.

The drivers were met by an initial light rain in Zandvoort as the race started, with the rain increasing in intensity as the race went on. Verstappen managed to perform at his best despite the unfavourable conditions and finished ahead of Fernando Alonso and Pierre Gasly in second and third, respectively.

Sergio Perez was fourth, Carlos Sainz fifth, Lewis Hamilton sixth and Lando Norris was seventh. Alex Albion finished in eighth place, Oscar Piastri was ninth and Esteban Ocon was tenth in the race.

Verstappen won his 11th race in 13 attempts this season to open up a very comfortable 138-point lead. The Dutchman became the first man since Vettel in 2013 to win nine successive races in Formula One. Veteran Alonso was voted as the Driver of the Day following his first podium since the Canadian Grand Prix.

The Formula One season continues in Monza next weekend with the Italian Grand Prix.