Formula 1: Everything you need to know about 2024 Dutch GP

F1 2024 season is back after the summer break

As Formula 1 returns back from the summer break, we head straight to Zandvoort circuit to resume with the second half of the 2024 season. The Dutch GP is scheduled to take place this weekend from 23-25 August 2024.

Zandvoort, a classic venue, made its World Championship debut in 1952. However, its return in 2021 brought back its charm in the F1 calendar.

But as the F1 season approaches its last ten races, the Dutch GP may act as a turning point for Max Verstappen. Verstappen will be racing on his home turf for the 14th race marking Formula 1’s return after the break.

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know before the Dutch GP starts.

Oooh it's good to be back 🤩#F1 #DutchGP pic.twitter.com/FLNuTHZU2X

— Formula 1 (@F1) August 22, 2024

Confirmed seats for the 2025 season

As the 2024 season approaches the end with just 10 races remaining, the fans have started speculating about the driver lineup for the 2025 season. 

Carlos Sainz has recently signed with Williams for the 2025 season at the beginning of the Summer Break. This transfer has narrowed down the available slots, leaving vacancies at Mercedes, Ferrari and Alpine.

There is also some uncertainty stirring up in Red Bull. Sergio Perez is under contract for two more seasons, but considering his poor performance, it’s doubtful if he’ll actually begin the extension he signed in June.

The most sought-after seat is at Mercedes, with Italian teenager Andrea ‘Kimi’ Antonelli favoured to replace Lewis Hamilton after his strong F2 performances. The only potential obstacle to his signing would be a surprising exit by Max Verstappen from Red Bull.

On the other side, if we look at Alpine, it seems like reserve driver Jack Doohan might finally get his chance to step up to a full-time f1 seat, filling the team’s second slot.

Meanwhile, the Sauber team, which is about to be rebranded as Audi in 2026, is yet to confirm a teammate for Nico Hulkenberg. While Valtteri Bottas may seem to be a considerable option, no deal has been finalized yet.

The F1 season so far

Max Verstappen did start the season in a dominant fashion, but a minor reliability issue in Australia cost him a potential victory, allowing Sainz to lead a Ferrari one-two.

After that Ferrari emerged as a close rival to Red Bull, but later McLaren’s upgrades gave Lando Norris his first F1 win in Miami.

Mercedes took advantage of the chaos, with George Russell winning in Austria and Lewis Hamilton ending a 56-race winless streak by winning at Silverstone. Oscar Piastri secured his first Grand Prix victory in Hungary, despite team orders drama at McLaren. Mercedes finished the first half of the season with a one-two in Belgium, but Russell was later disqualified due to a minor technical infringement.

What is the Circuit like?

Zandvoort, much like Silverstone, emerged from the post-war racing boom, opening its doors in 1948. The original circuit, crafted with input from Le Mans legend Sammy Davis, combined permanent track sections with public roads winding through the dunes, creating a thrilling layout.

Though the track has undergone significant renovations, it still presents a unique challenge to drivers. The iconic Tarzan curve, now featuring an 18-degree banking, adds to the excitement. As Formula 1 cars navigate the 4.25km circuit for 72 laps this weekend, the dunes are certain to witness another spectacular race.

Max Verstappen has won all three Dutch Grands Prix since its return to the calendar in 2021#F1 #DutchGP pic.twitter.com/mR8eXNlrhi

— Formula 1 (@F1) August 22, 2024

When is the Race?

EVENT	DATE	TIME
Free Practice 1	23 August 2024	4:00 pm – 5:00 pm IST
Free Practice 2	23 August 2024	7:30 pm – 8:30 pm IST
Free Practice 3	24 August 2024	3:00 pm – 4:00 pm IST
Qualifying	24 August 2024	6:30 pm – 7:30 pm IST
Race	25 August 2024	6:30 pm – 8:30 pm IST

Weather Forecast

Friday

• Forecast: Light rain during the day with dry conditions in the evening.
• Temperature: 22°C
• Chances of Precipitation: 55%

Saturday

• Forecast: Possible wet conditions during the qualifying session
• Temperature: 20°C
• Chances of Precipitation: 65% 

Sunday

• Forecast: Dry conditions on race day with sunny intervals
• Temperature: 19°C
• Chances of Precipitation: 15%

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