Lando Norris’ aspirations for the Formula 1 title took a devastating hit at the Dutch Grand Prix after a dramatic late-race engine failure forced him out just seven laps from the finish. Meanwhile, McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri cruised to a commanding victory, extending his championship lead to 34 points with nine races remaining.
Piastri, who started on pole, held off Norris throughout the race, maintaining composure as his British teammate reported smoke billowing from his cockpit. Norris pulled over to the side of the track in frustration, his title challenge abruptly slipping away as Piastri sealed a lights-to-flag win.
The race was also a grim afternoon for Ferrari. Lewis Hamilton, who had expressed optimism about racing for Ferrari earlier in the weekend, suffered a heavy crash in light rain on lap 23, marking his first retirement since joining the Scuderia. The safety car caused a pit stop shuffle that ultimately did not help Ferrari’s fortunes.
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Tragedy continued for the Italian team when Charles Leclerc collided with Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli on lap 53. The incident sent Leclerc into the barriers and forced both drivers out of the race, resulting in a double retirement for Ferrari.
Home favorite Max Verstappen thrilled the crowd with a spirited drive, finishing second after starting on soft tires and making several overtakes, including a daring move around Norris. Rookie Isack Hadjar achieved his first career podium in third place ahead of George Russell in fourth.
Despite multiple challenges from Verstappen, Norris held his ground until his engine failure dashed his hopes. McLaren confirmed a pit stop mishap earlier in the race with a front jack man, though the crew member was unharmed.
With Piastri finishing comfortably ahead, he now stands in a strong position to clinch the 2024 F1 championship. Norris faces an uphill battle as the season heads into its final stages, while Ferrari looks to regroup after a costly weekend in the Netherlands.