Despite wet conditions during FP3 and a Formula 2 race that concluded early due to a significant crash and heavy rainfall, the sun emerged from the clouds as Q1 commenced at Zandvoort. All drivers opted for intermediate tires as they tackled qualifying runs for the Dutch Grand Prix. Challenging braking zones were a notable feature of the wet track, resulting in drivers like Nico Hulkenberg and Verstappen finding themselves in the gravel at Turn 1.
Verstappen’s dissatisfaction with the car’s grip was evident early in Q1, as he questioned the team over the radio. Despite these challenges, drivers stayed on track to improve their lap times, effectively clearing water from the surface. As the session progressed, Charles Leclerc and other drivers experienced off-track excursions. Alex Albon emerged as the fastest driver in Q1, while Liam Lawson, substituting for Daniel Ricciardo, began his Formula 1 debut from the 20th position.
