Antonelli leads F1 title charge at Dutch GP

Kimi Antonelli led the way in first practice for the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, according to the BBC, topping McLaren's Lando Norris. The Mercedes driver, who at 19 leads the Formula One drivers' championship, is the man to beat as the season resumes after the summer break.

The Guardian reported that the Dutch Grand Prix may be hosting its final meeting on the calendar this weekend, but its farewell heralds the opening of a championship run-in that is far from over. Antonelli's rivals do not see him as out of reach, despite his substantial lead, and the remaining races promise a tight contest.

George Russell, Antonelli's Mercedes teammate, took pole position for the sprint race ahead of Norris and Charles Leclerc, the BBC confirmed. The team's one-two pace in practice signals that Mercedes has arrived at Zandvoort with strong form, even as the championship pressure mounts on its young leader.