Lewis Hamilton is adamant he dwells little on the past, his recollection of myriad victories and record-breaking moments indistinct and uncertain such is his forward focus. After the Dutch Grand Prix at the weekend Max Verstappen, who shares a champion’s trait in relentlessly anticipating the next challenge, will nonetheless surely have reason to indulge in a pleasing reminiscence of this race when the twilight years beckon.
As the wins tick over for Verstappen – 46 and counting – his victory in Zandvoort was a celebration writ large in vivid orange. A huge crowd of 105,000 revelled in what they feel is now inevitable, that the Dutchman will secure his third title this season and sooner rather than later. It is likely, even, at Japan later this month, with six races in hand. That he equalled Sebastian Vettel’s record of nine consecutive F1 victories at his home race was the icing on the cake.
