Max Verstappen crashed out of the Dutch Grand Prix on the opening lap at Zandvoort, ending his participation in what is scheduled to be the circuit's final Formula 1 race for the foreseeable future. The four-time world champion lost control of his Red Bull on a damp section of a banked corner near the start-finish straight and struck the barrier heavily, destroying the front of his car.
A red flag was immediately deployed to clear debris, and the race was suspended for an extended period. The 28-year-old confirmed by radio that he was uninjured and exited the vehicle under his own power. More than 100,000 spectators attended the event, which falls sixth in the championship standings and behind leader Kimi Antonelli entering the weekend.
Verstappen, who recently extended his Red Bull contract through 2030, had won at Zandvoort in 2021, 2022 and 2023 before finishing second in the last two editions.