Formula One returns to the track for the second part of the 2023 season. The first stop is in the Netherlands, the home race for Max Verstappen and the numerous “orange” fans. The circuit hosting the Dutch GP is a historic track that has undergone various evolutions over the years. Let’s explore together in the track analysis the various challenges present at the Zandvoort circuit, the venue for the Dutch Grand Prix.
The track is relatively short at 4.259 km and features 14 corners, which weave through continuous changes in slope and banking. The most famous corners are Turn 3 and Turn 14, where the banking can reach up to 18 degrees – significantly higher than those at Indianapolis. Brake stress is minimal; in fact, Brembo considers the Zandvoort circuit to be undemanding. The mechanical setup of the cars is crucial, requiring a higher ride height to avoid touching the plank in corners with banking. There are two DRS zones, on the main straight and between Turns 10 and 11.
Sector 1
After the start-finish line, cars approach Turn 1, the legendary Tarzan corner – a right-hand bend with a slight banking that might induce understeer. This is followed by a fast left-right sequence leading to Turn 3, the first corner with significant banking. Here, drivers have three trajectory options: the shortest low line, the fastest high line utilizing the outer curve, or a middle path. Exiting Turn 3, drivers head into the fast sequence of Turns 4-5-6, which also features varying slopes and some undulations.
Sector 2
The second sector begins with Turn 7, a high-speed right-hander that’s taken with throttle nearly at 100%. From here, the track continues to Turn 8, another right-hand corner that demands ample downforce for rapid traversal. This is followed by Turn 9, a right-hander preceded by a moderately challenging braking zone generating 3.8 Gs of deceleration. Drivers need to manage their entry well, as understeer could occur and push the car off track. From here, cars head to Turn 10, a wide left hook leading onto the second straight with DRS activation.
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Sector 3
The third sector commences with the braking for Turn 11, the second most demanding corner of the lap, with 4.6 Gs of deceleration. From here, cars enter the Audi S, a 90-degree right followed by a left hairpin. Traction is prioritized in this section to aid the exit onto the final stretch of the track. Exiting Turn 12, cars head to the last two right-hand corners of the track, where it’s easy to exceed track limits on the outside. Preparing these corners well is crucial, especially Turn 14, which features banking and allows for greater speed on the final straight.
Pirelli’s Tire Choices for the Zandvoort Track
For the return of the circus to the Netherlands, Pirelli has opted for the harder compounds in their range, much like last year. This choice is driven by the stresses generated in the different banked sections, where lateral loads are added to the vertical accelerations. Furthermore, it’s worth noting that the C1 compound differs from that of the previous season. The new C1 was introduced this year and falls between the old specification and the C2. As a result, it’s slightly softer to provide a wider range of strategic options.
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