Max Verstappen crashed out of the Dutch Grand Prix on the opening lap at Circuit Zandvoort today, Sunday, August 23, 2026. The Red Bull driver admitted responsibility for the incident, describing it as his fault but also a ‘strange moment’. The crash prompted an immediate red flag, suspending the race.
Verstappen lost control of his Red Bull car in the banked final corner of the circuit. Conditions were damp following a rain shower that occurred approximately 50 minutes before the race start.
Explaining the incident, Verstappen stated he ‘got caught out’ by the track conditions. He noted that he saw a dry patch and attempted to accelerate, but it was ‘still a bit too early’ for full throttle.
The four-time world champion had started the race from seventh position on the grid. He had been feeling unwell throughout the weekend leading up to the Grand Prix.
During the initial moments of the race, Verstappen found himself squeezed onto the grass in a four-wide situation on the run to Turn 1. He was also challenged by Red Bull stand-in Liam Lawson in subsequent corners.
The impact of the crash was described by Verstappen as ‘a decent hit’, though he clarified he had ‘had worse’ incidents. The Red Bull car sustained significant damage.
Despite the heavy contact with the wall, Verstappen walked away from the wreckage uninjured. The race was halted as a result of the incident.
At the time of the red flag, Lando Norris led the field, followed by Kimi Antonelli, George Russell, Charles Leclerc, and Oscar Piastri. Lewis Hamilton, Liam Lawson, Arvid Lindblad, Pierre Gasly, and Franco Colapinto completed the top ten.
