Dutch GP 2025: Piastri delivers a masterclass as Norris faces heartbreak

Last Sunday, August 31st, the legendary Zandvoort circuit was the stage for one of the most decisive races of the 2025 Formula 1 season. With drama, crashes, and a brilliant performance by Oscar Piastri, the Dutch Grand Prix became a turning point in the championship fight.

Let’s dive into everything that happened in the orange sea of Zandvoort.

A perfect Sunday: Piastri claims his first grand chelem

The star of the weekend was undoubtedly Oscar Piastri. The Australian didn’t just win; he started from pole, led every lap, and set the fastest lap, securing the coveted grand chelem: a rare feat last seen in 1998.

It was total dominance from lights out to the checkered flag. McLaren’s setup and strategy were flawless, and Piastri showed why he’s leading the championship with confidence.

Heartbreak for Norris: title hopes shaken

If Piastri celebrated, Lando Norris lived a nightmare. Running comfortably in second and aiming for a McLaren 1–2, the Briton was forced to retire on lap 65 due to an oil leak. The mechanical failure not only cost him big points but also extended Piastri’s lead in the championship to 34 points.

After the race, Norris admitted the retirement was a huge blow, but promised to fight until the end.

Full podium: Verstappen thrills home crowd, Hadjar makes history

The Dutch fans had a reason to cheer as Max Verstappen crossed the line in second place, delivering a solid drive in front of his home crowd. But the big surprise came in third place: rookie Isack Hadjar scored his first-ever F1 podium, a moment that will go down in history for the young French driver.

Chaos in the midfield: Safety Cars and penalties everywhere

The Dutch GP was far from calm for the rest of the grid. Three Safety Car periods spiced up the race, with big incidents involving Lewis Hamilton and Charles Leclerc, both of whom failed to finish. There were also penalties for aggressive moves by Carlos Sainz and Andrea Kimi Antonelli, adding to the drama.

Top 10 Finishers – Dutch GP 2025

1. Oscar Piastri (McLaren)
2. Max Verstappen (Red Bull)
3. Isack Hadjar (RB)
4. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
5. George Russell (Mercedes)
6. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin)
7. Carlos Sainz (Ferrari)
8. Gabriel Bortoleto (Sauber)
9. Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)
10. Esteban Ocon (Alpine)
    

Championship Standings After Dutch GP

Drivers – Top 3

1. Oscar Piastri – 309 points
2. Lando Norris – 275 points
3. Max Verstappen – 205 points

A turning point before Monza

The Dutch GP might go down as the race that defined the 2025 season. With Piastri now enjoying a comfortable lead and Norris under pressure, the tension moved to Monza for the Italian Grand Prix as a track where Ferrari desperately needs redemption.

Image from: f1mania