F1 LIVE | The Dutch Grand Prix: Verstappen and Hamilton share the front row
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- GPblog.com
Finally the time has come! After being postponed and cancelled, after protests and lawsuits, today the Dutch Grand Prix will be held at the Zandvoort circuit. That fact alone is worth a party. Max Verstappen starts from pole position, with Lewis Hamilton starting alongside in P2. We're set for an interesting afternoon and the next chapter in this World Championship duel.
Liveblog: The Dutch Grand Prix
Rarely has the pressure to win in front of a home crowd been so great for a driver. Without Verstappen, the whole GP at Zandvoort wouldn't even be there. But Hamilton and Mercedes will be doing all they can to upset the home fans, and to keep their lead in the World Championship.
Track Guide
A repeat of Silverstone in the first lap?
For the outcome of this duel, the first three corners of the race will be crucial. Hamilton also knows that he needs to seize his chance in that first lap. Whoever is in front after the Hugenholtz corner, has victory within reach, given the limited possibilities for overtaking. A repeat of Silverstone, where Hamilton does everything he can, is therefore possible.
Although little overtaking is expected, there is still some uncertainty about the tyres which could cause tension later in the race. None of the drivers has driven more than 15 laps in a row during the free practices. Nobody knows exactly how long the soft rubber will hold up under the heavy load in the corners. What is certain is that the battle for victory will be between Red Bull Racing and Mercedes, who were many times faster than the competition in the long runs.