FIA Announces Last-Minute Change for This Weekend’s Dutch Grand Prix

Formula One’s governing body, the FIA, has announced that the 60 km/h (37.2 mph) pit lane speed limit will be raised to 80 km/h (49.7 mph) for the 2025 Dutch Grand Prix. The decision has been taken to reduce pit stop times and create more strategic opportunities during races.

The pit lane speed limit has been set for safety reasons, as a narrow road bustling with 20 F1 cars mid-race could prove dangerous if left unmonitored. While many F1 teams prefer a one-stop strategy at Zandvoort, the increase in pit lane speed could prompt teams and drivers to consider two stops, thereby adding to the overall excitement.

A report also confirmed that F1 tire supplier Pirelli will bring the C2 (hard)-C3 (medium)-C4 (soft) compounds for the race at Zandvoort, compared to the 2024 round when teams were offered C1-C2-C3 options. The upcoming race marks Pirelli’s 500th F1 Grand Prix.

The 2025 Dutch GP also marks Max Verstappen’s first home race in the ground effect era where he trails in the Drivers’ Standings. Red Bull has been struggling to address problems on its RB21 F1 car, causing a significant setback for the four-time world champion.

Not to forget the dominance showcased by McLaren, as both drivers, Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris, are placed first and second in championship standings. Verstappen recently revealed his observation of the McLaren MCL39 F1 car’s strong point that remains unmatched by the competition. Newsweek Sports reported his comments:

“I think their medium speed performance is incredible compared to, I would say, everyone else on the grid. The rotation that they have on the front axle, without losing the rear, is something that is also quite incredible to see, and that’s something that we have to try to achieve.”

McLaren team principal Andrea Stella acknowledged Verstappen’s comments, confirming that he was correct. He said:

“That’s an easy answer because it can be answered just by looking at the GPS data. When you look at the speed comparison with some other teams, the data says that McLaren can generate the highest mid-corner speed in medium-speed corners.

“So, I think the assessment of Max is correct. We still have our weak points. If you go on a very high-speed corner like Copse, for instance, or Pouhon, we are not the fastest car. Likewise, probably in very low speed, we are not the fastest car.

“But the majority of corners in a championship happen to be medium-speed corners, and certainly in that range, our car is, data in hand, the best.”