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Norris "honestly didn't think a win was possible" in Zandvoort Lando Norris followed up his Hungarian Grand Prix victory with another crucial triumph at Zandvoort, winning the final Dutch Grand Prix and giving his Championship challenge further momentum. The McLaren driver had to work hard for the victory after losing out to Kimi Antonelli at the second standing start. Norris remained close to the Mercedes driver, however, and began to close the gap significantly during the second stint. The Briton's chances of victory appeared uncertain during the opening half of the race, particularly as he struggled with the Soft tyres. McLaren had faced difficulties with balance and pace throughout the weekend, and those problems initially carried over into the Grand Prix. The switch to the Hard compound, however, transformed Norris' fortunes. The McLaren suddenly came alive, allowing him to push harder and put Antonelli under increasing pressure. Mercedes eventually reacted by bringing Antonelli into the pits early, creating an opportunity for Norris. When the Italian emerged into a battle with Lewis Hamilton, Norris seized his chance and produced a brilliant move around the outside of Turn 1 to take the lead. From there, Norris controlled the race. Even when a late Virtual Safety Car created an opportunity for the leaders to pit, McLaren chose not to stop, leaving Norris on older tyres. Despite that disadvantage, he was able to pull away from his rivals and eventually crossed the finish line more than 11 seconds ahead. "I'm incredibly happy to take the win at the final race here in Zandvoort, but it was a real fight. For the first half of the race, especially on the Soft tyre, I honestly didn't think a win was possible. "I struggled a lot with the pace and balance, and it felt like a bit of a repeat of Saturday's struggles. However, once we put the Hard tyres on, the car came alive. "I felt much more comfortable, I could push, and we were able to put Mercedes under pressure, forcing them into an early stop which ultimately opened the door for us. "The team's strategy was perfect, and that gave me the opportunity on fresh tyres to attack while Kimi was battling with Lewis. I knew that was my one and only chance, and I had to make it stick. Committing to the outside of Turn 1 was the move that won us the race." For Norris, however, the result could prove hugely significant in the Championship battle. After already winning in Hungary, he has now followed it up with another victory at Zandvoort, continuing his late-season resurgence. "Despite the win, I'm not fully satisfied. We still have weaknesses, particularly in the slow-speed corners, and we need to improve if we want to fight for the championship. I'll be pushing the team harder than ever because the work doesn't stop here; we need more performance."