Formula 1 returns after the summer break with the Dutch Grand Prix and the fifth sprint weekend of the 2026 season. Kimi Antonelli leads the world championship standings by 50 points and secured a podium last time out in Hungary. His nearest challenger is Ferrari’s Lewis Hamilton, while Mercedes teammate George Russell is a further five points off the pace. Lando Norris claimed his and McLaren’s first victory of the season in Budapest and the reigning world champions will be looking to continue their decent form after the three-week summer recess. Yet this year’s event at Zandvoort will be the last at the old-school circuit, with the Dutch GP’s contract not being renewed with F1 beyond 2026. It gives Max Verstappen, who signed a new contract this week, one last opportunity to add to his three wins in front of his adoring orange-clad supporters. Follow live coverage of the Dutch Grand Prix with The IndependentF1 Dutch GP sprintGood morning and welcome to live coverage of the sprint race in Zandvoort! F1 is back after the summer break and we’re back with a helter-skelter sprint weekend at the final Dutch Grand Prix. George Russell is on pole ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris - what drama will we get on the North Sea coast today?(Reuters)Kieran Jackson22 August 2026 10:04