Norris dominates Dutch Grand Prix™ reducing the Championship lead

Lando Norris put on a masterclass at the Dutch Grand Prix, claiming his second Formula 1® victory in dominant fashion. Despite losing the lead to Max Verstappen at the start, the McLaren driver showcased impressive pace to overtake the Dutchman and cruise to a comfortable win.

The victory at Zandvoort marks a significant moment in the 2024 Formula 1® season, as Norris managed to reduce Verstappen's lead in the Drivers' Championship to 70 points with nine rounds remaining. This result has injected new life into the title race, suggesting that Verstappen's march towards a fourth consecutive championship might not be as straightforward as previously thought.

Verstappen had been unbeaten at his home race for the past three years, making Norris's victory all the more impressive. The Red Bull driver seemed to struggle with tyre degradation, allowing Norris to close the gap and eventually take the lead on lap 18.

From that point on, Norris was in a league of his own, extending his lead lap after lap. The McLaren driver even had enough in reserve to set the fastest lap of the race on his final circuit, securing an additional championship point.

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Charles Leclerc put in a stellar performance for Ferrari, climbing from sixth on the grid to claim the final podium spot. The Monegasque driver managed to hold off a charging Oscar Piastri in the closing stages, providing a much-needed boost for the Scuderia.

Carlos Sainz also impressed for Ferrari, making up five places to finish fifth, ahead of Red Bull's Sergio Perez. The Mexican's continued struggles to match Verstappen's pace are leaving Red Bull vulnerable in the Constructors' Championship, with their lead over McLaren now cut to just 30 points.

Norris was understandably elated after the race, saying, "It feels amazing. I wouldn't say a perfect race because of lap one again, but it was still beautiful. The pace was strong, the car was unbelievable. I could push and get past Max. It was a straightforward race. Tough but enjoyable."

Verstappen, on the other hand, admitted to struggling with pace, stating, "You always hope to do better. We had a good start and tried everything we could but it was clear we were not quick enough."

The 2024 Formula 1® season continues with the Italian Grand Prix at Monza next weekend, where McLaren will be looking to capitalise on their newfound momentum and further close the gap to Red Bull in both championships.

Dutch Grand Prix: Top 10

1. Lando Norris (McLaren) 1:30:00.000
2. Max Verstappen (Red Bull) +22.000
3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) +30.000
4. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) +32.000
5. Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) +35.000
6. Sergio Perez (Red Bull) +38.000
7. George Russell (Mercedes) +40.000
8. Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes) +42.000
9. Pierre Gasly (Alpine) +45.000
10. Fernando Alonso (Aston Martin) +48.000

Standings (Top 5)

Drivers' Championship

1. Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing) 295 points
2. Lando Norris (McLaren) 225
3. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) 192 
4. Oscar Piastri (McLaren) 179 
5. Carlos Sainz (Ferrari) 172

Constructors' Championship

1. Red Bull Racing (434 points)
2. McLaren (404)
3. Ferrari (370)
4. Mercedes (276)
5. Aston Martin (74)

Next Race

Round 16: Autodromo Nazionale Monza, Italy (30 Aug - 01 Sep)