Lando Norris secures Dutch Grand Prix Pole as McLaren extend Zandvoort dominance

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Formula One world champion Lando Norris secured pole position for the Dutch Grand Prix on Saturday, edging Mercedes challengers George Russell and Kimi Antonelli to put McLaren at the front of the grid for a third consecutive year at Zandvoort.

Norris produced a timely qualifying performance as drivers rushed to complete their final flying laps ahead of forecast rain at the seaside circuit.

The result marks Norris’ second successive pole position, following his top qualifying spot at the Hungarian Grand Prix before Formula One’s August break.

The McLaren driver will now head into Sunday’s race with an excellent opportunity to claim victory, as the statistics strongly favour the pole sitter at Zandvoort.

Every Dutch Grand Prix since the race returned to the Formula One calendar in 2021 has been won from pole position, meaning Norris will be looking to extend that remarkable sequence.

Russell and Antonelli will start alongside the McLaren on the front rows, setting up an intriguing battle at the sharp end of the grid.

The 2026 Dutch Grand Prix will also carry additional significance, as it is expected to be the final edition held at Zandvoort for the foreseeable future. The historic circuit’s distinctive old-school layout is set to disappear from the Formula One calendar after this weekend.

With Norris starting at the head of the field and history firmly on his side, McLaren will be hoping to sign off Zandvoort’s current Formula One era with another victory.
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