Max Verstappen retired from the Dutch Grand Prix today, August 23, 2026, after a significant crash on the opening lap at Circuit Zandvoort. The incident occurred at the final corner, prompting an immediate red flag to suspend the race.
Verstappen, who started seventh on the grid, lost control of his Red Bull car in damp conditions. His wheel dropped onto a wet kerb on the inside of the banked final corner, pitching him hard into the concrete wall.
The car then spun back across the track, narrowly avoiding Alpine’s Pierre Gasly. Verstappen confirmed over team radio that he was unharmed following the heavy impact.
Pre-race rain had left the Zandvoort circuit slippery, with a downpour approximately 40 minutes before the start. Despite this, all 22 drivers commenced the race on slick tyres.
The final corner remained the only damp section of the track. Audi driver Gabriel Bortoleto also experienced a spin at the same corner but managed to avoid contact with the barriers.
This retirement marks a disappointing conclusion to Verstappen’s final home Grand Prix. The Dutch Grand Prix is scheduled to be removed from the Formula 1 calendar after the current 2026 season.
Following the restart, Lando Norris secured victory in the Dutch Grand Prix. Kimi Antonelli finished in second position, with George Russell completing the podium in third place.
Liam Lawson competed for Red Bull Racing at Zandvoort, stepping in for Isack Hadjar. Hadjar was sidelined due to a wrist injury sustained during a boxing training session over the summer break.
Red Bull Team Principal Laurent Mekies confirmed Hadjar suffered a minor fracture. Hadjar is expected to recover in time for the Italian Grand Prix at Monza on September 6.
Yuki Tsunoda replaced Lawson at Racing Bulls for this event. Mekies, appointed Team Principal and CEO of Red Bull Racing in July 2025, also recently oversaw Verstappen’s contract extension through 2030.
