Max Verstappen’s Dutch GP prospects have dimmed as his 2024 Formula 1 season unfolds unfavorably. Despite an early showing with two wins, Verstappen has fallen well behind McLaren’s pace, placing his championship ambitions out of reach. With the sport currently on break, attention shifts to the home race at Zandvoort, where Dutch driver Tom Coronel cautions fans against expecting more than a podium finish from the Red Bull star.
Tom Coronel Advises Fans to Temper Expectations for Verstappen’s Home Race
Red Bull Racing has noticeably lagged behind McLaren in raw speed this season, leaving Max Verstappen unable to consistently challenge for victories. His struggles have led the 27-year-old world champion to shift focus toward the 2026 regulations rather than the current title fight. The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, seen as a major event for Verstappen and his supporters—the Orange Army—might not bring the success many hope for.
Tom Coronel emphasized the need for realism regarding Verstappen’s chances, underlining that a podium would be a strong result under current circumstances. He stated,
“You have to be realistic. I think P3 is the maximum achievable. In that case, we’re in for a good party on Sunday.”
—Tom Coronel, Racing Driver
Coronel advised Verstappen to set modest goals, suggesting qualifying within the top five and aiming to finish third in the race, rather than focusing on winning.
“Winning, that’s not something he [Verstappen] needs to think about. The maximum achievable here would be 3, 4, 5. Well, then you have to take the extreme. I always think about the home advantage, which makes you more driven. So yes, I say qualify P5 and finish third in the race.”
—Tom Coronel, Racing Driver
McLaren’s Dominance Leaves Verstappen’s Win Chances Slim
The RB21 car currently lacks the pace to threaten McLaren’s front-running performances, leaving Verstappen with slim opportunities to convert his driving skill into victories at Zandvoort. However, Verstappen’s reputation as an exceptional racer means an upset isn’t impossible. His ability to outperform expectations has been well documented, with Tom Coronel recalling past races where Verstappen surprised critics.
“We’ve seen it several times, of course. We saw it in Suzuka. ‘No, that’s not going to happen at all’. It never happens and then he manages to squeeze out the ‘Max round’.”
—Tom Coronel, Racing Driver
Coronel explains that if Verstappen can secure a clean start and avoid turbulent air, he might maintain a lead for the duration of the race, compensating for the car’s deficiencies.
“Then he can stay in front, because the rest are driving in dirty air. These are, I think, his chances. But not because he’s faster in combination with the car.”
—Tom Coronel, Racing Driver
Verstappen’s Realistic Approach Meets High Fan Expectations
Known as a fierce competitor and four-time world champion, Max Verstappen always strives to win. Yet, this year’s results have required pragmatism, especially given McLaren’s current supremacy and Red Bull’s performance woes. While Verstappen will undoubtedly pursue victory with full commitment, a podium finish remains a more practical target, likely satisfying both the driver and his supporters.
The Dutch Grand Prix holds significant emotional value for Verstappen and his fans. The Zandvoort circuit is packed with the Orange Army, including a grandstand named in his honor. Although fans hope for a victory on home soil, the prevailing assessment from experts like Tom Coronel indicates that celebrating a podium finish would be a reasonable outcome worth embracing.
With the race marking the season’s return after the summer break, Verstappen’s performance at Zandvoort will be a key indicator of his form heading into the final stages of the championship. While McLaren’s advantage looks difficult to overcome, Verstappen’s history of extraordinary drives leaves open a faint but intriguing possibility for dramatic results.
