F1
George Russell Controls Zandvoort Sprint to Win Ahead of Leclerc and Close Title Gap
Mercedes driver George Russell delivered a masterclass in tyre management and race craft on Saturday, converting pole position into a commanding victory in the first-ever Formula 1 Sprint held on Dutch soil.
Russell led every lap of the 24-lap encounter around Circuit Zandvoort, crossing the line 1.360 seconds ahead of Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc to secure his third Sprint win of the season and trim his deficit in the 2026 Drivers’ World Championship.
A Controlled Masterclass from Pole
When the lights went out, Russell made a flawless launch to fend off McLaren’s Lando Norris through the opening complex. While a tight four-car train formed behind him during the early stages, Russell maintained a measured pace, consciously preserving his medium tyres for the closing laps.