Max Verstappen returned from the Formula 1 summer break to top FP1 for the Dutch Grand Prix on a weekend where the reigning champion can claim a record-equalling ninth consecutive grand prix win.
The Dutchman’s 1:11.852 saw him almost three-tenths clear of nearest rivals Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton. Red Bull teammate Sergio Perez ended the session fourth, half-a-second adrift.
Read More: F1 2023 – Dutch GP FP1 Report
Carlos Sainz would sit the session out for Ferrari, with his seat filled by reserve driver Robert Shwartzman. In running the former F2 vice champion, Ferrari fulfils half of its obligation to run a rookie in two free practice sessions this season.
A crash for Nico Hulkenberg brought out the only red flag of the session. The Haas driver ended his session in the gravel after spinning at Turn 14 and making slight contact with the barriers.
There was also minimal running for Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll as his team were forced to call time on the Canadian’s running early with a suspected engine issue.
[motorsport_result id=’120503′]
