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Formula 1 returned to Zandvoort after the summer break, and McLaren, particularly Lando Norris, stole the show at the Dutch circuit. Despite securing pole position on Saturday and losing the lead to Verstappen right at the start, this time, the race was all Norris. The British driver quickly caught up to and overtook the reigning world champion and current championship leader, gradually increasing the gap lap after lap.
By the end of the race, Norris's McLaren had a 22-second lead over the home favorite, who had previously won every race in the Netherlands since Formula 1's return to Zandvoort. This impressive display of power sends a warning to Verstappen and Red Bull for the rest of the season. Although Verstappen still holds a comfortable 70-point lead in the championship standings, with nine races remaining and a competitive McLaren, the fight for the drivers' title is still wide open. The British team has also caught up with Red Bull in the constructors' championship.
In a surprising turn, Charles Leclerc took the final spot on the podium for Ferrari. Starting from fifth, the Monegasque driver managed to hold off McLaren's Piastri, Perez, and the two Mercedes, demonstrating an excellent pace ahead of the upcoming race in Monza. Significant updates are expected at Ferrari's home Grand Prix as they aim to challenge for victory.
Finally, there were also impressive comebacks from Sainz and Hamilton, who started from tenth and fifteenth positions, respectively, and finished fifth and eighth. Next weekend, the action continues at Monza.
