After a long summer break, Formula 1 returns to the track for Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, an event that marks the start of the second half of the 2024 season. The last races before the break saw an intense battle between Red Bull and McLaren, with the latter closing the gap in the standings and establishing itself as its main rival in the title race. Although Max Verstappen has dominated the Dutch GP in recent years, this year the situation seems less favorable for Red Bull, while McLaren continues to grow, putting pressure on the Milton Keynes team. Let's see the advice on who to line up at Fanta F1 on the weekend of the Dutch GP.
Challenges and prospects for the second part of the season
The second part of the 2024 season promises to be particularly exciting, with McLaren now just 42 points behind Red Bull in the constructors' championship. The British team made the most of the updates introduced before the summer break, demonstrating remarkable consistency in performance. On the other hand, Red Bull seems to have lost some of its momentum. Although Verstappen continues to dominate in the race, recent updates to the RB20 have not brought the desired improvements, and there are fears that the car has reached its performance peak. This could pave the way for a more even battle in the second half of the season, with McLaren ready to give it a run for its money.
The Zandvoort Grand Prix will be an important test to understand whether Red Bull will be able to maintain its supremacy or whether McLaren, with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, will be able to challenge Verstappen on his home turf. The last ten races will be decisive to determine the 2024 world champion, and every point will count more than ever.
Who to line up at Fanta F1 in the Dutch GP
With a budget of 100 credits, let's see the best lineup to field at Fanta F1 for the Dutch GP considering that the fight in the NOW Community Club is still very open.
For this weekend, at Max's house we choose to rely on a driver who wears the same color as the public in the Zandvoort grandstands: Oscar Piastri. The young Australian from McLaren has been one of the most consistent drivers in recent races. His feeling with the car and his ability to extract the most from the updated aerodynamic package make him a solid choice, especially on a technical circuit like Zandvoort.
At his side we propose George Russell. The weather could play a decisive role, and the race strategy will be fundamental. So watch out for Mercedes, which could benefit from the variable conditions. The Brackley team struggled in the first races, but came back to life from Monaco onwards. Without the disqualification in Belgium he would have achieved his second victory of the season. In particular, Russell manages to adapt to different conditions and strategies. With a good qualification you can aim high.
We choose as the last three drivers Lance Stroll, a low-cost investment. The Canadian has shown he can perform well on technical circuits, and with Aston Martin needing to improve in the constructors' championship, he is expected to put in a solid race. It can't be missed Nico Hulkenberg, this season's revelation at Fanta F1. With his averages he has nothing to envy of higher caliber riders. In conclusion we choose Logan sargeant who arrives in Zandvoort with the certainty of having to say goodbye to Williams, and probably F1 at the end of the season.
Predictions for the Dutch GP
Safety Car in the race: Yes
Virtual Safety Car in the race: No
Red Flag in the race: No
Drivers distinguish wet or full wet tires in the race: No
Team double in the race: No
Driver who starts on pole wins the race: Yes
Stables to bring both cars into the top 10: 4
Vehicles forced to retire: 3
