Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli delivered an impressive performance by topping the first Free Practice session (FP1) of the 2026 Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix at Circuit Zandvoort.
The young Italian driver set the fastest lap of the session with a time of 1:12.949, beating his closest rivals, Lando Norris of McLaren by 0.121 seconds, and Mercedes teammate George Russell, who finished third just 0.125 seconds behind.
The 60-minute FP1 session was the only practice session held this weekend because the Dutch Grand Prix is using the Sprint Weekend format. Drivers faced tricky conditions early in the session as the track was still damp before eventually switching to dry-weather slick tyres.
Top 10 Results – FP1 Dutch Grand Prix 2026
- Kimi Antonelli – Mercedes | 1:12.949
- Lando Norris – McLaren | +0.121s
- George Russell – Mercedes | +0.125s
- Lewis Hamilton – Ferrari | +0.190s
- Charles Leclerc – Ferrari | +0.289s
- Oscar Piastri – McLaren | +0.659s
- Nico Hülkenberg – Audi | +0.835s
- Pierre Gasly – Alpine | +0.962s
- Gabriel Bortoleto – Audi | +1.042s
- Arvid Lindblad – Racing Bulls | +1.336s
Mercedes and Ferrari Show Strong Early Pace
Ferrari appeared to be one of the strongest teams during the middle part of the session. Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton exchanged the top position as the track conditions continued to improve.
However, once teams switched to soft tyres for qualifying simulations, Antonelli produced a stunning final run. The Mercedes driver found the perfect balance and extracted maximum performance from his car to take the top spot before the session ended.
The result provides a major boost for Mercedes, who appear to have found a stronger setup at Zandvoort. After several challenging races, the Silver Arrows now look ready to fight at the front once again.
Verstappen Struggles at His Home Circuit
While Antonelli enjoyed a dream start, reigning world champion Max Verstappen endured a difficult opening session in front of his home crowd.
The Red Bull driver could only manage 11th place in FP1. Verstappen also had a difficult moment when he ran wide and entered the gravel area, highlighting the challenge of the narrow and technical Zandvoort circuit.
Besides Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton and Carlos Sainz also had small moments off track as they struggled for grip in several corners.
Red Bull Driver Changes Add More Drama
The FP1 session also marked an important change inside Red Bull Racing. Liam Lawson returned to the main Red Bull team, replacing Isack Hadjar, who is sidelined due to injury.
Meanwhile, Yuki Tsunoda returned to Racing Bulls, adding another interesting storyline to the Dutch Grand Prix weekend.
Although topping FP1 does not guarantee victory, Kimi Antonelli’s performance is one of the biggest talking points from the opening day at Zandvoort.
Mercedes appears to have found a more competitive package, and Antonelli continues to prove that he is not only a talented young driver but also a potential future championship contender.
However, the real test begins in Sprint Qualifying, where every team will push harder and reveal more of their true performance.
Can Kimi Antonelli maintain his impressive pace throughout the weekend? Or will Max Verstappen fight back and defend his home territory once again?
Share your comments. Who do you think will win the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort?
