Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc Aiming to Keep Perfect 2025 Record Alive at the Dutch Grand Prix

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kevin Binoy | Last updated Aug 26, 2025 2:53 PM ET

After what felt like the longest summer break, Formula 1 is finally back and heading straight into one of the most colorful stops on the calendar, Zandvoort. The Dutch Grand Prix always brings plenty of orange smoke, roaring fans, and of course, those iconic banked corners. For Max Verstappen, it’s as close to a homecoming as it gets, with the circuit practically built around his fanbase.

Charles Leclerc, meanwhile, has also had his fair share of good memories here. And while Lando Norris spoiled the party last year, both Verstappen and Leclerc arrive this weekend with a unique streak intact, one they’ll be determined to protect.

Zandvoort made its comeback to the F1 calendar in 2021 after a massive 36-year break, and right away Max Verstappen made it his stage, dominating the weekend on his way to his first world title that same year.

The only drivers who have made Q3 in all 4 trips to Zandvoort since it returned to the calendar in 2021...

• Max Verstappen
• Charles Leclerc

End of list. pic.twitter.com/tSFKEXsHrm
— Daniel Valente ️ (@F1GuyDan) August 26, 2025

But while race day grabs all the attention, qualifying around this track is a different kind of beast. One lap here is tight, technical, and punishing the kind that can trip up even the best drivers. That’s why it’s pretty wild that since Zandvoort returned, only two drivers have managed to reach Q3 every single time: Verstappen, naturally, and Charles Leclerc.

Some Storylines to Watch Out for at the Dutch Grand Prix

Over at Mercedes, all eyes are on George Russell and rookie Kimi Antonelli. Neither has had their contract officially extended, and with Verstappen rumors swirling earlier this summer have now been put to bed with Max confirming that he will be staying with the Red Bull in 2026. Russell’s form suggests he deserves stability and should be handed a new contract soon while Antonelli’s potential is clear, but until deals are signed, the speculation won’t go away.

Lewis Hamilton’s first year in red has been bumpy. He’s shown flashes, like that Sprint win in China, but consistency has been missing. The summer break may have been the reset he needed, especially after a tough Hungary outing. A solid race at Zandvoort could help him and Ferrari finally build momentum before Monza.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: