Dutch Grand Prix: presentation and predictions

For the second consecutive year, and the second time in the 21st century, Formula 1 sets its sights on Zandvoort. The track was built in 1939, but modifications have been made to accommodate the top category of motor racing. The first appearance of the Dutch Grand Prix on the FIA calendar took place there in 1952. It is a circuit that measures 4.259 kilometers in length, with 14 turns. Jim Clark holds the record for the most victories on this circuit with four successes, but it is Max Verstappen who holds the track record with a time of 1:08.885.

A layout that has evolved.

After 36 years of absence from the calendar, the Zandvoort circuit made its comeback in 2021 (originally scheduled for 2020 but postponed due to the pandemic). However, the layout has significantly changed since 1985, when Formula 1 last visited before disappearing from the Formula 1 landscape. The circuit is no longer the same since Niki Lauda’s last Formula 1 victory.

An expansion of the DRS zone from Friday.

The FIA announced that they have expanded the DRS zone on the long start straight at Zandvoort. The detection line is now located between turns 12 and 13, with activation occurring after turn 13. This decision could have adverse effects on the cars, particularly on the tires which will have to endure more weight on the front. However, this is only a test for now. Depending on the positive or negative feedback from the drivers and teams, this modification could be cancelled, reverting back to the same DRS zone as last year.

14 turns, two DRS zones, and 72 laps.

It is the third track on the calendar that requires the most support for the cars. The two tracks ahead of Zandvoort are Budapest and Monaco. Turns 13 and 14 make up the final section of the track, and the corners are banked at 18 degrees. Drivers will experience vertical forces rather than lateral ones. Overtaking opportunities are quite limited, but the first DRS zone after turn 10 should allow cars to get closer in order to attempt a pass on the start-finish straight or under braking for the first corner. The length of the pit lane at Zandvoort is only 235 meters, the shortest of the entire season. However, it is an incredibly narrow pit lane and the speed limit is reduced from the usual 80 km/h to 60 km/h.

As for the choice of tire compound, Pirelli has decided to bring the hardest tires from their range, just like they did earlier in the season at Silverstone.

The second outing in a triple-header of races takes @F1 to Zandvoort, in the homeland of current world champion: @Max33Verstappen 🦁

This is all you need to know about the challenging #DutchGP circuit: https://t.co/yNhDUeNICN#F1 #Fit4F1 #Formula1 #Pirelli #Pirelli150 pic.twitter.com/1u2vzpPwNX

— Pirelli Motorsport (@pirellisport) August 29, 2022

The predictions of the editorial team.

After a weekend of dominance by the Red Bull team, the Austrian team is strongly favored to win another Grand Prix this season, notably through Max Verstappen.

Even though Binotto thinks that the gap between Red Bull and Ferrari will be reduced after Spa, Red Bull seems to have a significant advantage. However, on a circuit that doesn’t heavily rely on engine power, the Red Bull (Honda) engine should have less impact compared to Spa and its long straight lines.

On a circuit that requires a lot of aerodynamic downforce, is it possible to have a surprise? Mercedes showed its strengths in the twisty sector at Spa-Francorchamps while losing a lot of ground on the straights.

On the other hand, the tire degradation issue that was problematic for Red Bull, especially in Austria, seems to no longer be relevant as the tire grip seemed to hold up well last weekend. On the contrary, it was a major issue for both Ferraris, with Carlos Sainz complaining about sliding on every lap after the Grand Prix. The victory of Max Verstappen at home seems inevitable for all the journalists.

Here is the table with the predictions from the editorial team members: