Lando Norris leads FP2 at the Dutch GP as two red flags disrupt the session, leaving fans eager for qualifying day drama.
Introduction
What a dramatic day at Zandvoort! The Dutch Grand Prix weekend is heating up, and Free Practice 2 (FP2) delivered everything fans could ask for – blistering laps, two red flags, and some unexpected surprises. Lando Norris, once again, proved why he’s the man to beat this weekend, setting the fastest time despite the chaos. But what exactly went down in this action-packed session? Let’s break it all down.
FP2 at Zandvoort – Setting the Stage
Friday at Zandvoort was all about building momentum for qualifying. With a packed grandstand of passionate Dutch fans waving orange flags, teams were determined to fine-tune their setups. After a tricky FP1, FP2 promised clearer skies and better grip – but that didn’t stop the drama from unfolding.
Weather Threats and Early Runs
The session started under dry conditions, but dark clouds loomed in the distance. Teams wasted no time, sending their drivers out immediately. Liam Lawson led the pack as drivers pushed hard to gather crucial data before potential rain showers.
Lando Norris Strikes First
Fresh from topping FP1, Norris continued his hot streak. On medium tyres, he clocked 1:12.615, setting the early pace. But as the laps rolled in, others started biting at his heels.
Rain Threat Creates Urgency
Drops of rain began to fall lightly, forcing teams to accelerate their plans. Fernando Alonso and Carlos Sainz briefly dethroned Norris before he came back flying, dipping below 1:12 with a sensational 1:11.294 lap. This was a clear warning: Norris wasn’t here to play.
First Red Flag – Lance Stroll’s Heavy Crash
Then came the first major twist. At the banked Turn 3, Lance Stroll lost control and slammed into the barriers, bringing out the red flag. Thankfully, the Canadian walked away unhurt, but his Aston Martin didn’t share the same luck. The session paused as marshals cleared the debris.
Isack Hadjar’s Technical Trouble
As running resumed, debutant Isack Hadjar’s Racing Bulls car decided it had enough. A technical issue forced him to stop on track, triggering a Virtual Safety Car. Not the debut outing he had in mind.
Mid-Session Shuffle – Hulkenberg Leads Briefly
With 30 minutes to go, Nico Hulkenberg stole the spotlight with a 1:11.080 lap on soft tyres. For a moment, it looked like Haas might pull off a shocker. But that didn’t last long.
Lewis Hamilton Spins Again
Hamilton’s day wasn’t smooth either. The seven-time champion had his second spin of the day, this time at Turn 9. He was pushing hard, setting purple sectors, but the W15 seemed edgy on the limit.
Alonso vs Norris – Who’s Faster on Softs?
When the sun returned, the track evolved quickly. Fernando Alonso broke into the 1:09s, but Norris responded immediately with 1:09.890, reclaiming the top spot. The fight between the McLaren and Aston Martin was fierce – but Norris had the edge.
Second Red Flag – Albon in the Gravel
With 21 minutes remaining, drama struck again. Alex Albon lost control at Turn 1, hitting the barrier and beaching his Williams in the gravel. Another red flag, another delay. This time, the damage was lighter, but his session was done.
Final Push – Race Simulations Begin
The clock ticked down, and with only 16 minutes left, teams switched focus to long runs. No one could better Norris’s time, leaving McLaren firmly in control heading into Saturday.
Top 10 Breakdown and Surprising Performances
The final order:
1. Norris | 2. Alonso | 3. Piastri | 4. Russell | 5. Verstappen | 6. Hamilton | 7. Tsunoda | 8. Leclerc | 9. Colapinto | 10. Hulkenberg
Some surprises? Franco Colapinto sneaking into P9 for Alpine and Hulkenberg in P10 were standout stories.
What Happened to Antonelli and Bearman?
Mercedes rookie Kimi Antonelli, after his FP1 crash, managed only P12, while Oliver Bearman (Haas) impressed early but finished just outside the top 10.
Key Incidents Under Investigation
One lingering issue – Norris is under investigation for minor contact with George Russell in the pit lane. Could that lead to a penalty? Fans will be watching closely.
What to Expect in FP3 and Qualifying
With rain still in the forecast for Saturday, FP3 will be crucial. Can Norris keep McLaren on top, or will Verstappen bring the house down in front of his home crowd?
Conclusion
Two red flags, changing track conditions, and Norris dominating again – FP2 had it all. If this is the warm-up, qualifying is going to be a blockbuster. Stay tuned, because the Dutch Grand Prix weekend is just getting started!
