Verstappen Tops Dutch GP FP3 in Rain-Hit Session: Full Results and Highlights

Max Verstappen emerged as the fastest driver in a challenging and wet third practice session at the Dutch Grand Prix. The session was marked by difficult conditions, causing spins and crashes, including incidents involving Kevin Magnussen and Zhou Guanyu.

Key Takeaways:

• Dominant Performance by Verstappen: Despite treacherous conditions, Max Verstappen managed to set the fastest time, showing his skill in handling the demanding wet weather. His performance outshone his rivals, with George Russell and Sergio Perez following him in the timings.
• High Drama and Incidents: The session witnessed multiple incidents due to the rain, including spins from top drivers like Charles Leclerc and Max Verstappen. Kevin Magnussen and Zhou Guanyu had significant crashes, resulting in them being unable to complete the session.
• Substitute and Debut Drives: With Daniel Ricciardo injured, Red Bull reserve driver Liam Lawson took his place at AlphaTauri, facing a challenging wet session. Despite the pressure, Lawson managed to return to the pits after spinning, displaying promising potential.

The Dutch Grand Prix’s third free practice session (FP3) was nothing short of dramatic. Max Verstappen, the Red Bull ace, skillfully clocked the fastest lap amidst challenging wet conditions. George Russell of Mercedes and Sergio Perez, Verstappen’s teammate, also showed commendable performances by clinching the second and third fastest times, respectively.

The incessant morning rain transformed the track into a tricky battleground, compelling drivers to opt for wet or intermediate tyres. This change added an extra layer of complexity to the session. The event was particularly challenging for Liam Lawson, stepping in for the injured Daniel Ricciardo. Making his debut in such conditions was no small feat, yet Lawson managed to navigate the session with a commendable effort.

The adverse weather led to numerous incidents, underscoring the session’s unpredictability. Notably, both Verstappen and Leclerc had their share of spins but avoided any serious damage. In contrast, Magnussen’s and Guanyu’s mishaps were more severe, leading to their early exit from the session.

The final minutes saw further drama as both Esteban Ocon and Liam Lawson lost control. Lawson’s spin resulted in the session’s third red flag, yet he impressively managed to drive back to the pits, demonstrating resilience and skill.

Overall, the FP3 session of the Dutch Grand Prix was a testament to the drivers’ abilities to adapt to rapidly changing conditions. The full results of the session were as follows:

1. Max Verstappen
2. George Russell
3. Sergio Perez
4. Fernando Alonso
5. Lewis Hamilton
6. Alex Albon
7. Oscar Piastri
8. Valtteri Bottas
9. Charles Leclerc
10. Lando Norris
11. Pierre Gasly
12. Carlos Sainz
13. Yuki Tsunoda
14. Logan Sargeant
15. Nico Hulkenberg
16. Esteban Ocon
17. Lance Stroll
18. Liam Lawson
19. Zhou Guanyu
20. Kevin Magnussen – No Time

The session highlighted both the peril and the spectacle of Formula 1, especially under challenging weather conditions, setting the stage for an intriguing qualifying session and race ahead.