Max Verstappen traveling to Zandvoort for the Dutch GP is always a huge moment for fans in The Netherlands. Verstappen is arguably the country’s greatest racing driver ever and one of its most popular athletes. However, sometimes, fans in the crowd cross a line that disrupts proceedings for all drivers in the circuit. This year, because of Verstappen’s ‘Orange Army’, the authorities around Zandvoort are set to tighten security on the track, as per Algemeen Dagblad.
Last year in Zandvoort, a fan threw an orange flare out on the track during qualifying, which affected the visibility for drivers for a significant period of time. It could have led to serious consequences had the drivers come in contact with it, or if the flare fell into the cockpit of one of the drivers too.
Because of several things that could go wrong if this incident is repeated, authorities around Zandvoort are resorting to stricter measures to make sure fans can’t throw stuff on the track this season. Additionally, there were also reports of misdemeanors in the stands at the 2022 Dutch GP.
Security expected to be tight for Max Verstappen’s home GP
Max Verstappen will take to the track next week when the F1 season resumes. After a three-week hiatus, the sport returns with the Dutch GP, which is Verstappen’s home race. The 25-year-old won both races in the Netherlands since F1 returned to Zandvoort in 2021. The atmosphere too, was electric. However, there were moments that left spectators attending the race distraught and authorities worried.
This year, Zanvdvoort’s director, Robert van Overdijk has taken steps to make sure the race does not live up to its infamous reputation. In the interview with Algemeen Dagblad, he said, “Ultimately, we do everything we can to make it just one big party. And that includes a lot of fun. But it certainly includes a good basis of common sense.”
The stands will include an increased number of male and female stewards. They will be there to check fans for any objects that they deem unsafe, and also to help the fans out in case there are misogynist comments being passed around or misdemeanors taking place, like we’ve seen in previous years.
Max Verstappen hoping to continue winning run
Keeping the controversy of section of Verstappen’s fanbase aside, there is no denying that the sea of orange in Zandvoort is likely to see yet another Verstappen win. The Dutchman currently has eight consecutive wins in 2023, and with another, he will match Sebastian Vettel’s record of nine.
Overall, Verstappen has 10 wins from the first 12 races. In fact, he is so far ahead of his rivals, that he can mathematically secure the title as early as the 2023 Qatar GP. However, once the season resumes next weekend, Verstappen will be looking to win his home race first, for the third consecutive time.
