George Russell secures pole position for Sprint at Dutch Grand Prix
3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 4:58 PM
Last updated Aug 21, 2026
George Russell of Mercedes claimed pole position in Sprint Qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix on August 21, 2026, with a fast time of 1m 11.567s, edging out McLaren's Lando Norris by 0.041 seconds. Russell, who had faced a challenging lead-up to the event, acknowledged that his confidence levels were low before the session. However, a shift in mindset helped him succeed, aiming for a good start in the upcoming Sprint race amidst strong competition from Ferrari. The Sprint itself is a key precursor to the main Qualifying event scheduled to follow.
- •Russell's fastest time was 1m 11.567s, securing pole for the Sprint.
- •He acknowledged low confidence before the weekend in Zandvoort.
- •The main Qualifying follows the Sprint, which remains critical for championship standings.
- •Ferrari's race pace appeared strong, presenting challenges for Russell's race strategy.
- 4:31 PMRacer — Russell rebuilds confidence with F1 Sprint pole, while Antonelli is slowed by floor damage
"George Russell says he arrived at the Dutch Grand Prix with lower confidence than usual due to his 2026 season so far, but that his Sprint pole position provided a timely boost.
"George Russell admitted it was "good to remind myself I've still got it" after returning to form by taking Sprint pole for the Dutch Grand Prix.
"Mercedes' George Russell bounced back from a tricky run to seal pole in Sprint Qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix.
Sources
External links- RacerAug 21, 2026, 4:31 PMRussell rebuilds confidence with F1 Sprint pole, while Antonelli is slowed by floor damage
George Russell says he arrived at the Dutch Grand Prix with lower confidence than usual due to his 2026 season so far, but that his Sprint pole position provided a timely boost.
- Formula1.com—Russell admits confidence ‘wasn’t highest’ before Sprint pole
Mercedes' George Russell bounced back from a tricky run to seal pole in Sprint Qualifying at the Dutch Grand Prix.
- Sky Sports—Russell: Sprint pole a good reminder that 'I've still got it'
George Russell admitted it was "good to remind myself I've still got it" after returning to form by taking Sprint pole for the Dutch Grand Prix.
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