Max Verstappen set the early pace on Formula 1’s return from its summer break, with the home favourite topping the timesheets in the opening practice in Zandvoort, ahead of his pacy rivals Fernando Alonso and Lewis Hamilton.

Following three weeks off from racing, the drivers returned to action as they kick started the second half of the season. They were greeted by clear blue skies, warm temperatures and packed grandstands filled with passionate fans.

LIVE COVERAGE: Follow all the action from first practice for the Dutch Grand Prix

And as the green light illuminated for the start of the session the drivers, led out by Kevin Magnussen – fresh from agreeing an extension with Haas – made their way out onto a very dusty track, with many looking to gather intel on their new upgrades.

Plenty of drivers bolted on the hard tyres, while a few ran the mediums in the early stages, with home favourite Verstappen, who was met with cheers at each corner of the track, setting the early pace – his nearest rival Lewis Hamilton over six-tenths behind.

Aston Martin, however, waited 20 minutes before going out on track, but all was not well. While Fernando Alonso was going round the circuit, it was bad news on the other side of the garage, with Lance Stroll told to box due to a suspected power unit issue.