The 2025 Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort was not only a thrilling race weekend but also a showcase of Max Verstappen’s deep connection with his passionate fanbase. Among the sea of orange-clad supporters, a special moment stood out as former Formula 1 driver and current Viaplay analyst Giedo van der Garde captured a heartwarming photo of Verstappen with van der Garde’s son, highlighting the reigning champion’s affection for his fans.
On Sunday, amidst the electric atmosphere at Circuit Zandvoort, Verstappen, the four-time World Champion and Red Bull star, took time to connect with fans, including a memorable interaction with van der Garde’s young son. The photo, shared by van der Garde, quickly became a talking point, showcasing Verstappen’s down-to-earth nature despite his superstar status. “Max loves his fans 🫶,” van der Garde captioned the image, encapsulating the sentiment of the moment.
The Dutch Grand Prix, the 15th round of the 2025 Formula 1 season, saw Verstappen finish second behind McLaren’s Oscar Piastri, who claimed victory after his teammate Lando Norris suffered a late engine failure. Despite not securing the win, Verstappen’s performance was a highlight for the “Orange Army,” the devoted Dutch fans who transform Zandvoort into a vibrant sea of orange each year. Verstappen, who has won three of the four Dutch Grands Prix since the event’s return in 2021, expressed his appreciation for the home crowd, saying, “It brings a smile to my face, seeing that amount of orange is very special.”
Giedo van der Garde, a former F1 driver who competed with Caterham in 2013 and now serves as a prominent analyst for Viaplay, was on hand to cover the race weekend. His presence added a layer of nostalgia, as he has been a vocal supporter of Verstappen’s career, often providing expert commentary on the Dutch star’s performances. The photo of Verstappen with van der Garde’s son underscored the tight-knit nature of the Dutch motorsport community, where past and present drivers share a mutual respect and admiration.
The moment resonated deeply with fans, as Verstappen’s humility shone through. Despite the intense pressure of the championship battle—where he trails Piastri by 34 points with nine races remaining—Verstappen remains a fan favorite for his approachable demeanor. As DJ Rick Jansen, who entertains the Verstappen grandstands, noted, “He’s our first F1 grand prix winner and the first Dutch F1 world champion, so a lot of people treat him like a god, but he sees himself as a normal human being.”
The 2025 Dutch Grand Prix, one of the final two before Zandvoort’s departure from the F1 calendar in 2026, was a celebration of Dutch motorsport culture. The event, known for its festive atmosphere and passionate fanbase, saw Verstappen deliver a strong performance, navigating a challenging weekend to secure a podium finish. His interaction with van der Garde’s son served as a reminder of why the “Orange Army” remains so loyal, turning out in droves to support their hero.
As Formula 1 heads to Monza for the Italian Grand Prix next weekend, Verstappen’s fans will undoubtedly carry the energy from Zandvoort forward. For van der Garde and his son, the photo with Verstappen will remain a cherished memory, a testament to the champion’s enduring bond with those who cheer him on.
