Key takeaways
- Encouraging race pace: Lewis Hamilton highlighted Ferrari’s long-run race pace as a positive sign following qualifying for the Dutch Grand Prix, expressing confidence that the Scuderia can keep up with McLaren and Mercedes.
- Fifth on the grid: The seven-time World Champion qualified 5th at Circuit Zandvoort, lining up one spot ahead of teammate Charles Leclerc on the third row.
- Strategy as key: Hamilton emphasized that tire management and race strategy will prove decisive around the narrow Dutch circuit on Sunday.
Lewis Hamilton remains optimistic about Ferrari’s prospects for the Dutch Grand Prix despite qualifying behind McLaren and Mercedes at Circuit Zandvoort. Pointing to encouraging race pace simulations from the SF-26 over the weekend, the seven-time World Champion expects to be in the fight on Sunday.
Hamilton secured 5th on the grid in Saturday afternoon’s main qualifying session, finishing three-tenths behind pole-sitter Lando Norris and one spot ahead of teammate Charles Leclerc. While single-lap tire warm-up remained a persistent hurdle, Ferrari demonstrated stronger long-run stint consistency throughout track sessions.
Asked in an interview attended by GRANDE PRÊMIO whether single-lap tyre warm-up difficulties could translate into a race advantage by preventing thermal degradation, Hamilton acknowledged the team’s race trim looked competitive.
“The race pace was better today. Mine wasn’t great, but Charles’ was particularly good. The car is much better, and I think tomorrow will be better,” Hamilton stated.
The performance signals a positive turn after setup experiments following opening practice left Hamilton struggling for balance during Friday’s Sprint Qualifying. Having regained handling confidence through setup adjustments on Saturday, Hamilton expects the SF-26 to maintain a strong tempo over full race stints.
“I think we will probably be able to at least keep up with those at the front. Strategy will be key,” Hamilton concluded.
Formula 1 action continues at Zandvoort on Sunday for the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix. GRANDE PRÊMIO covers all track activities live from Zandvoort with reporter Leonid Kliuev. Follow all paddock updates on our news page.
Session schedule: Dutch Grand Prix 2026
| Session | Local time (CEST) | UTC |
| Race | Sunday, August 23 – 15:00 | 13:00 |
Broadcast guide: Where to watch in the United States
- United States (Eastern Time / ET)
- Broadcaster: Apple TV
- Race: Sunday, August 23 – 09:00 ET
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
1. Where will Lewis Hamilton start the 2026 Dutch Grand Prix?
Lewis Hamilton qualified 5th and will start on the third row alongside teammate Charles Leclerc.
2. What did Hamilton say about Ferrari’s race pace in Zandvoort?
Hamilton noted that Ferrari’s long-run race pace was strong and expressed confidence that they can keep up with McLaren and Mercedes on Sunday.
3. What upgrades did Ferrari bring to the Dutch Grand Prix?
