Norris beats Russell to pole at Zandvoort Dutch GP

McLaren driver Lando Norris snatched pole position from Mercedes' George Russell at the Dutch Grand Prix during a frantic qualifying session at Zandvoort in 2026, as drivers scrambled to beat incoming rain.

Norris edged Russell by a margin of 0.102 seconds just as raindrops began appearing on the drivers' visors. The threat of worsening weather forced competitors to complete their timed runs earlier than their usual schedule.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Mercedes rookie and championship leader Kimi Antonelli briefly topped the timesheet on his final run before being overtaken by Norris, who consolidated his early advantage, and Russell. Antonelli finished 0.031 seconds behind Russell and 0.009 seconds ahead of McLaren's Oscar Piastri.

Ultimately, the heavy rain predicted by teams failed to materialize. Lewis Hamilton capitalized on leaving his final run late to pip Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc, locking out the third row for the Scuderia in fifth and sixth positions.