Formula 1 News: 2026 Dutch GP Thursday Press Conference Drivers gathered at Zandvoort on Thursday for the official pre-event press conference ahead of the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix, a Sprint weekend that carries extra emotion as it marks the circuit’s final Formula 1 appearance for the foreseeable future. With the paddock buzzing from Max Verstappen’s freshly confirmed long-term future and a host of team personnel and lineup changes, the session—split into two parts featuring Verstappen, Sergio Pérez, Arvid Lindblad, Lando Norris, Nico Hülkenberg and George Russell—offered a mix of contract news, reflections on the summer break, performance outlooks and heartfelt tributes to the passionate Dutch fans and the old-school layout they will soon leave behind. Highlights summary – Verstappen’s four-year Red Bull extension to 2030: The four-time champion described the decision as straightforward and stress-free, rooted in his comfort within the team and belief it can return to the front. He noted open, family-like discussions with management, no firm rival offers, and that the sport’s direction (including a potential return to V8 engines) will influence any longer-term plans. The announcement at his home race added extra meaning for the team and fans. – Cadillac and Racing Bulls personnel/line-up shifts: Pérez welcomed Marcin Budkowski as the new team principal replacing Graeme Lowdon, praising the latter’s foundational work while looking forward to Budkowski’s fresh perspective as Cadillac builds toward 2027. Lindblad addressed Yuki Tsunoda joining him at Racing Bulls and Liam Lawson’s temporary move to Red Bull (covering the injured Isack Hadjar), saying he understood the logical choice of experience for a Sprint weekend and remains focused on his own program. – Post-summer-break outlooks and championship positions: Russell (59 points behind his teammate) stressed a race-by-race approach after a mixed first half and a fully switched-off break, while Norris (under 100 points