F1 Dutch Grand Prix 2025 at Zandvoort: Lando Norris stuns by topping both FP1 and FP2 while Verstappen struggles outside the top spots. Will the world champion’s home race be a dream or a disaster?
Zandvoort, Netherlands — The atmosphere on the Dutch coast is hotter than ever as Formula 1 returns for the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix. But instead of a dominant display from home hero Max Verstappen, fans witnessed a major surprise: Lando Norris of McLaren stole the spotlight.
Norris dominates Friday practice
In FP1, Norris set the pace with a 1:10.278 lap, finishing nearly three-tenths clear of teammate Oscar Piastri. In FP2, despite two red flag interruptions caused by crashes from Lance Stroll and Alex Albon, Norris remained unstoppable, clocking the fastest lap of the day at 1:09.890.
Fernando Alonso and Piastri followed closely, both within a tenth of Norris, setting the stage for a thrilling qualifying battle.
Verstappen struggles, Dutch fans concerned
In stark contrast, Verstappen could only manage sixth in FP1 and fifth in FP2. The reigning world champion appeared unsettled on his home circuit, notorious for its steeply banked corners. Dutch fans are beginning to worry: can “Super Max” turn things around and defend his crown against the growing threat from McLaren and Aston Martin?
Zandvoort – a festival that may be its last
The seaside circuit, stretching 4.259 km, has long been an iconic part of F1 history. But speculation looms that the Dutch GP could be dropped from the calendar after 2026. If true, fans are savoring what could be one of the final Grand Prix weekends on Verstappen’s home soil.
A promise of drama ahead
With Norris in red-hot form, Alonso and Piastri ready to pounce, and Verstappen under pressure to deliver, qualifying and race day promise edge-of-the-seat action.
👉 This year, Zandvoort is no longer just Verstappen’s stage — it may become McLaren’s chance to pull off the biggest upset of the season. Will the Dutch icon let the sea of orange stand in disappointment, or will he transform pressure into triumph with a comeback for the ages?