Norris 'still believes' in title fightback after Dutch GP pole

Lando Norris insists he 'still believes' a Formula 1 title fightback is possible after taking pole for the Dutch Grand Prix. The McLaren driver has cut his deficit to championship leader Kimi Antonelli to 90 points after winning in Hungary and a strong Sprint on Saturday.

Why it matters:

With 11 rounds left, Norris's resurgence could shake up a title fight dominated by Mercedes. Back-to-back poles show the gap is bridgeable, and a clean Sunday could spark a late charge.

The Details:

• Norris edged George Russell to pole, while Antonelli could manage only third after a Q3 mistake.
• Norris gained ground in the Sprint, finishing ahead of Antonelli to chip away at the lead.
• Championship picture: Antonelli leads Lewis Hamilton by 53 points, with Russell three points further back. Norris sits fifth, 11 behind Charles Leclerc.
• History lesson: Norris jokingly referenced last year's drama, hoping Mercedes suffers the same disqualifications and errors that cost McLaren dearly in 2025.
• Russell's reset: The Mercedes driver says the summer break lifted his pressure, insisting the title is his "to gain, not lose" despite being outperformed by his teenage team-mate.
• Antonelli's warning: The 19-year-old admitted errors in Sprint qualifying and Q3 served as a reminder he cannot lower his guard.

What's next:

Sunday gives Norris a chance to convert pole into vital points against a Mercedes squad controlling the 2026 narrative. With major upgrades still coming and the second half offering more points than the first, the standings could shift rapidly.