The Netherlands is startled today by a devastating aircraft crash that cost life to at least 164 passengers. The disaster, which took place around 10:42 am near Lelystad Airport, is already described as one of the deadliest aviation incidents in Dutch history.
What makes the drama even more shocking is the rumor that Formula 1 driver Max Verstappen and his girlfriend were originally on the passenger list. Fans around the world immediately started praying and hoping, for fear that their national hero and world champion would be involved in the tragic accident.
The panic on social media was immediately felt. Within a few minutes after the first reports, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram and Tiktok full of hashtags such as #Prayformax, #FlightCrashNL and #maxverstappen flocked. Thousands of fans shared messages of disbelief, sadness and concern.
Yet shortly thereafter some relief followed: Max Verstappen was not on board the device. According to an official statement from his management, Verstappen canceled his flight at the last minute due to a change in his training schedule. According to the same source, his girlfriend, whose name was not officially released, would also be safe.
“Max and his partner are deeply shocked by the news,” said a short statement from his PR team. “Our thoughts are with the victims and their families. We ask the media to respect their privacy in these difficult hours.”
The aircraft, a commercial scheduled flight of a regional society, was en route from the Netherlands to a popular tourist destination in Southern Europe. Witnesses reported that the plane made abnormal sounds just after taking off, after which the sudden height lost and crashed in an open field. Emergency services were quickly on the spot, but could not do much to save lives.
Prime Minister Mark Rutte called it a “terrible tragedy” and has announced that a national mourning day will be held. King Willem-Alexander announced through the Royal House “he was deeply touched by this unimaginable loss.”
There would also be several children among the victims. Rescuers and psychologists have been deployed to assist relatives and eyewitnesses. The cause of the crash is currently being investigated by the Dutch Safety Board.
Although the shock around Max Verstappen was fortunately unjustified, the incident leaves a deep impression. Not only in the Formula 1 community, but with the entire country and far beyond.
Today we mourn, and we cherish those who have been spared by a play of fate.
