Lewis Hamilton came to a standstill during the second practice session of the Dutch GP 2021

Lewis Hamilton was having an amazing day as he set the fastest time in the first free practice session at the 2021 Dutch GP. The Britwas faster than Max Verstappen who finished in second place, however, the Mercedes Driver stopped the car on the circuit itself causing a red flag.

Hamilton turned the engine off himself, which suggests the team found the issue on their data charts. This is better for Hamilton when compared with the engine dying by itself. The World Championship Leader also checked the back of the car for fire, but didn’t see anything.

Mercedes confirmed Hamilton was running his highest-mileage power unit, which is his original one from the beginning of the season. The fault was traced back to unusual behaviour in its oil system. The driver is aware of the fact that this problem will put him on the back foot and overtaking will be a huge problem come race day.

Hamilton, for his part, remained positive ahead of third practice and qualifying. He also acknowledged how great the fans were at the Dutch GP.

Wow what a circuit and what a crowd! Had to stop due to a loss of power. We will work through this and hope for a better day tomorrow. Thank you #teamlh for all the incredible support and also to the Dutch Orange fans for making the atmosphere electric today and for welcoming me. pic.twitter.com/ZdzgOmDIUJ

— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) September 3, 2021

Max Verstappen closes in on Lewis Hamilton

The second half of the 2021 Formula 1 season couldn’t be much more exciting. As it stands before the Dutch GP, Max is only three points behind of the current leader Hamilton. The Mercedes driver has won the The World Driver Championship for 7 years running.

Verstappen is desperate to win his first and this season might be the one for him. With Hamilton facing an engine problem just a day before the Dutch GP and admitting to the fact that overtaking might be a problem, Max can take full advantage of the situation and can end up ahead of the champion after the Dutch GP.

Whatever the case the race is going to be exciting both on and off the circuit.

More Formula One News

• Lewis Hamilton doesn’t support IOC’s decision on Black Lives Matter gear during Olympics
• Max Verstappen left surprised as he reaches 100 race milestone with Red Bull
• Damon Hill left in awe after Lewis Hamilton racks up 100 poles in F1 ahead of 2021 Spanish GP

Follow our dedicated Formula One page for instant Formula One news and updates