Zandvoort (Netherlands), August 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
McLaren’s Lando Norris claimed his second consecutive Formula 1 victory of the season after winning a dramatic Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort on Sunday, finishing ahead of Mercedes pair Kimi Antonelli and George Russell.
The race was interrupted by a red flag on the opening lap after home favourite Max Verstappen lost control of his Red Bull and crashed heavily into the barriers. Verstappen, who had started seventh, reported that he was unharmed but was forced to retire.
Norris had started from pole and initially retained the lead, but Antonelli made a strong restart to move ahead. The Italian then built an advantage before Norris gradually closed the gap and reclaimed first place with 18 laps remaining.
A late Virtual Safety Car caused by Esteban Ocon’s Haas stopping on track added further uncertainty. Antonelli pitted for fresh soft tyres, while Norris stayed out and successfully managed his tyres to the finish. He crossed the line 11.536 seconds ahead of Antonelli, with Russell securing third after holding off the Ferraris.
Lewis Hamilton finished fourth for Ferrari, followed by teammate Charles Leclerc, while McLaren’s Oscar Piastri was sixth. Liam Lawson was seventh as the only Red Bull finisher, followed by Nico Hulkenberg, Fernando Alonso and Pierre Gasly.
The victory moved Norris to 159 points and fourth in the championship, while Antonelli strengthened his lead with 242 points. Russell moved into second on the standings, also on 183 points, ahead of Hamilton on the same tally.
The Dutch Grand Prix was the final scheduled F1 race at Zandvoort, which returned to the calendar in 2021. The championship now moves to Italy, with the Italian Grand Prix scheduled for September 4-6.
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