After the long summer pause, Formula One is back this weekend with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort. With 10 races left in the season, the championship battle is finely balanced, especially between McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, who are separated by only nine points.
Here are five themes to look out for:
1. McLaren teammates on collision course?
Norris won at Zandvoort last year, and both he and Piastri look strong enough to repeat the feat this time. The team insists its drivers are allowed to fight on track, following what they jokingly call the “papaya rules” — essentially, don’t hit each other. That policy has already been tested after their clash in Canada, and with the title fight intensifying, the question is whether McLaren will continue treating both equally or back one over the other.
2. Verstappen faces an uphill task at home
For the first time in years, home favourite Max Verstappen is not considered the top contender going into Zandvoort. Last season was one to forget for the Dutchman, who struggled in practice, lost pole position, and finished well off the lead. With McLaren in form, Verstappen may need a standout drive to deliver a podium for the sea of orange-clad fans in the stands.
3. Hamilton under the microscope
It has been a rough start to life at Ferrari for Lewis Hamilton. The seven-time champion described himself as “useless” after the Hungarian Grand Prix, sparking fresh speculation about whether age and pressure are catching up with him. At 40, the Dutch Grand Prix could be an important test of whether he can rediscover his edge or if talk of retirement will only grow louder.
4. Driver market gossip resumes
The second half of the season also brings fresh rumours about next year’s driver line-ups. While some seats are already settled, eyes are on George Russell, whose Mercedes contract is up for renewal. He has insisted an extension is only a matter of time, but until pen meets paper, the speculation will keep paddock chatter alive.
5. Zandvoort’s wild card: the weather
The circuit, nestled among coastal dunes, is known for its carnival atmosphere and tricky conditions. Last year, sudden downpours turned practice into chaos, with Logan Sargeant suffering a massive crash. With rain again in the forecast, unpredictability looms large — something that could work in Verstappen’s favour given his reputation in wet conditions. And with only one more Dutch Grand Prix scheduled after this year, fans will be eager to soak up the unique atmosphere.
