P1racenews AI automatic summary:
F1 driver-turned-pundit Martin Brundle has suggested the near-23 second gap between Lando Norris and Max Verstappen at Zandvoort was not genuine, and that the Dutchman strategically allowed it to grow artificially large.
Martin Brundle believes that Max Verstappen intentionally eased off during the Dutch Grand Prix in order to send a message to Red Bull, strategically holding back to push the team to improve. Despite finishing second to Lando Norris, Brundle thinks that Verstappen purposely did not give his all, resulting in the largest winning margin of the season for Norris. Red Bull team principal Christian Horner acknowledged the need to address their performance deficit and learn from McLaren’s strong showing. The reigning constructors’ champions have faced fierce competition this season, forcing them to reevaluate their car’s development and racing strategies. There is a growing sense of impatience within the Verstappen camp as Red Bull struggles to maintain their early-season dominance.