Lando Norris Outpaces Verstappen in Dutch Grand Prix Practice

Lando Norris outpaced Max Verstappen in the first practice session for the Dutch Formula One Grand Prix. Despite wet conditions initially, Norris clocked a best time of 1:12.322 minutes. Verstappen was slightly slower, with Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton finishing third. The session saw changing weather and showcased upgraded cars.

Lando Norris clocked the fastest lap in Friday's first practice for the Dutch Formula One Grand Prix, surpassing local favorite Max Verstappen. The session began under wet and windy conditions but improved as the sun emerged.

Norris, a 24-year-old Briton, posted a best lap time of one minute 12.322 seconds at the Zandvoort circuit. Red Bull's Verstappen was 0.201 seconds behind, briefly leading the timesheet on a rapidly drying track. Verstappen has historically dominated Zandvoort, having won every race from pole since the track's 2021 return to the calendar but is expected to face a tougher challenge this Sunday.

Mercedes' Lewis Hamilton was third fastest, trailing by 0.684 seconds, followed by Ferrari's Carlos Sainz in fourth. As the weather improved, the track became busier, with notable performances from Williams' Alex Albon and McLaren's Oscar Piastri. Sauber's Robert Shwartzman, filling in for Valtteri Bottas, finished 16th.

(With inputs from agencies.)