F1 race news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
George Russell won the Dutch GP sprint at Zandvoort, while Kimi Antonelli finished fourth. The race marks Zandvoort's final F1 appearance, with Verstappen racing home for the last time.
Background
The Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort is the first race after F1's summer break and its final edition on the calendar, as the promoter chose not to renew beyond 2026. Max Verstappen, the hometown hero, has signed a new Red Bull contract through 2030, ending speculation about his future. The weekend also features a sprint race for the first time at this circuit, with George Russell winning it from pole.
How it unfolded
- Aug 20, 2026Thursday press conference: Verstappen confirms he wants to enjoy the final race weekend, citing the positive news of his contract extension.
- Aug 21, 2026Yuki Tsunoda is called up to replace the injured Isack Hadjar at Racing Bulls for the Dutch GP, marking his F1 return.
- Aug 22, 2026George Russell wins the sprint race from pole, while championship leader Kimi Antonelli finishes fourth. Lando Norris takes pole for the main race.
- Aug 23, 2026The Dutch Grand Prix takes place at Zandvoort, with Norris on pole ahead of Russell and Antonelli.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- F1 and the promoter say the race's departure is a business decision by the promoter, not a failure of the event.
- Public
- Fans are paying higher ticket prices (15-20% increase) and higher VAT on accommodation, making the final race a financial burden.
- Expert
- Jolyon Palmer warns George Russell that this might be his best-ever shot at the F1 title, given his current form.
Still unverified
Rumours that Verstappen could leave Red Bull were circulating before his contract extension, but he stated he was 'closer to retiring than changing teams'.