For the first time ever, Max Verstappen will finally have a proper home race. So, it is perfectly understandable that he is nervous about the hype surrounding the Dutch Grand Prix. This will also be the first time in 45 years that F1 last visited the Netherlands for a Grand Prix race.
Ever since his Formula One debut in 2015, the Red Bull driver has amassed a legion of fans. So it is not surprising that thousands are set to flock to the north of the country as racing returns to Circuit Zandvoort once again.
When the F1 circus reaches the Netherlands, nobody will be surprised to see an orange sea. In the build-up to the event, the track underwent major renovations. Luckily, these alterations have been made on time so the fans can egg on Verstappen to deliver a home win.
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Max Verstappen is concerned about the fan support
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Speaking to RTL, Verstappen opened up on a few concerns ahead of his maiden home race. The Dutchman has witnessed former Red Bull team-mate Daniel Ricciardo being the star of the show at his home race in Australia. Max was concerned about shouldering the hopes and dreams of the crowd
He confessed, “I definitely don’t want to be in this situation. Ultimately, I’m there to perform. That’s the most important thing. It will be a great weekend, but [fans] must also understand that I have to do all weekend to have a great weekend.”
The Dutch Grand Prix, is scheduled to take place in May. Naturally, Dutch fans pounced at the opportunity to see their home hero on their own turf for the first time.
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Unfortunately, the coronavirus outbreak has led to chaos. It also led to the Chinese GP’s cancellation. The good news is that the Bahrain government may relax travel restrictions for F1 personnel. In other words, this month’s race could go ahead without a hitch.
The bad news is that there is still a shadow of doubt over the Vietnam Grand Prix, another F1 debutante. Verstappen will be looking to get his 2020 F1 campaign off to a strong start and challenge Lewis Hamilton.
