Entertainment

Lando Norris wins Dutch Grand Prix but downplays McLaren's Formula 1 title chances

Despite consecutive victories, the McLaren driver argues the car's low-speed deficits and high drag pose challenges for upcoming high-speed tracks.

Updated Aug 24, 2026 · 00:17 UTC1 reports

The short version

Lando Norris secured his second consecutive Formula 1 victory at the Dutch Grand Prix, moving 83 points behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli.
Norris stated that McLaren's car lacks the overall consistency to sustain a championship fight, citing slow-speed corner deficits and drag weaknesses.
Mercedes is facing increased pressure from McLaren and Ferrari as its next car upgrade is not scheduled for another four races.
The upcoming Italian Grand Prix at Monza will test McLaren's package on high-speed straights while Antonelli serves an engine-related grid penalty.

Lando Norris won the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, following his previous win in Hungary.[BBC News]
Norris sits 83 points behind championship leader Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes in the drivers' standings.[BBC News]
Norris assessed that McLaren excels in high-speed sections but remains significantly disadvantaged compared to Mercedes in slow-speed turns and drag.[BBC News]
McLaren team principal Andrea Stella stated that confirming car improvements at the next race in Monza will determine optimism for the rest of the season.[BBC News]
Mercedes has not introduced car upgrades since the Canadian Grand Prix in May and is not scheduled to bring new updates for four more races.[BBC News]
Antonelli faces an upcoming grid penalty at the Italian Grand Prix for exceeding his engine allowance.[BBC News]

Whether McLaren's recent development gains will hold up on low-downforce circuits like Monza and Azerbaijan remains unproven.[BBC News]