Mercedes "clearly" not F1's best team anymore - Kimi Antonelli

The 2026 Formula 1 season concluded with the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort circuit. Kimi Antonelli of Mercedes claimed the lead in the world championship standings, extending his advantage to 50 points over his nearest competitor Lewis Hamilton of Ferrari. George Russell, also from Mercedes, stood five points behind Hamilton. McLaren's Lando Norris secured his maiden victory of the season in Budapest, while reigning world champions Ferrari prepared to maintain their strong form after the summer break.

Max Verstappen, who recently signed a new contract, would make his final appearance at Zandvoort before his next contract. The Dutch GP would be the last event at the historic Zandvoort circuit, as its contract with F1 was not renewed beyond 2026. This provided Verstappen the final opportunity to add to his three wins at the circuit, in front of his enthusiastic orange-clad supporters.

Following the Dutch GP sprint, the updated driver standings were as follows: Kris Antonelli topped the list with 242 points, followed by Hamilton (183 points) and Russell (183 points). McLaren's Norris claimed the fourth spot with 159 points, while Ferrari's Leclerc was fifth with 155 points. Verstappen was in tenth place with 112 points, while the field continued down to the 22nd position with Nico Hulkenberg of Audi.

The constructor standings were led by Mercedes with 392 points, followed by Ferrari with 316 points, McLaren with 230 points, Red Bull with 180 points, and Racing Bulls with 66 points. Alpine was in sixth place with 62 points, Haas in seventh with 21 points, and Audi in eighth with 12 points. Williams and Aston Martin followed in ninth and tenth positions respectively, with Williams having 11 points and Aston Martin holding only 1 point. Cadillac was at the bottom with zero points.