Norris wins last Dutch GP as Verstappen crashes out

Lando Norris delivered a commanding performance to win the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, marking a triumphant return for Formula 1 after the summer break. The McLaren driver secured victory by a significant margin, extending his winning streak after also triumphing in Hungary.

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It was a good race. Very hard fought. Probably one of my best wins. We had to really fight for it, but the pace was very strong.

The race was dramatically altered on the opening lap when local hero Max Verstappen lost control of his Red Bull in treacherous, drying conditions following a heavy downpour. The Dutch champion crashed into the barriers, forcing an early red flag and ending his hopes of a home victory. Thankfully, Verstappen was unharmed and able to exit his car unaided.

After the restart, rookie Kimi Antonelli initially took the lead from Norris. However, Norris executed a decisive overtake on lap 54, seizing control of the race and driving on to a comfortable win. "It was a good race. Very hard fought. Probably one of my best wins," Norris stated after the race. "We had to really fight for it, but the pace was very strong."

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Today I managed things incredibly well. So I'm on cloud nine, very, very happy and it's nice to win the last race here in Zandvoort.

Behind the leaders, a thrilling duel unfolded for the final podium spot. George Russell of Mercedes ultimately held off a charging Lewis Hamilton in the closing stages to secure third place. Ferrari's Charles Leclerc finished fifth, with Oscar Piastri in the second McLaren rounding out the top six.

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I simply didn't have the feeling with the car, which was sliding a lot in general.