Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff: “Yes, Antonelli’s car was damaged”

A strong starting position for seven-time Grand Prix winner George Russell ahead of the Zandvoort Sprint on 22 August: The Mercedes driver has clinched his third Sprint pole of the season (after Shanghai and Montreal), whilst championship leader Kimi Antonelli has to settle for fifth on the grid.

Mercedes team principal Toto Wolff assesses his drivers’ performance in the dunes by the North Sea as follows: “That was a very solid performance from George. Today it was all about not getting distracted, given the lack of free practice, but simply putting in a good lap. But the gaps are very small, and I’m happy for Russell that he’s taken pole.”

Kimi Antonelli went off the track in the first qualifying segment – was his car damaged as a result? “Yes,” admits team principal Wolff, “but that wasn’t the reason for fifth place. We were able to repair that damage.”

“Kimi made a small mistake there and ran out of track, but given how close the times were, there’s not much to criticise about his performance afterwards.”

“Zandvoort has a mind of its own. The wind always plays a part here, which often means sand gets blown onto the track.”

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Zandvoort: Sprintrennen

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22.08.2026 - 11:30

“We can be pleased with pole position, but for me the long runs in free practice are more indicative, and the Ferraris made a really strong impression there.”

“We’re losing the most time through turns 7 and 8; that’s where the McLarens are taking three tenths off us. Either the car’s ride height is too low, or the balance just isn’t quite right yet.”

“It’s important for George that he’s come back here after the summer break with a strong performance. (Wolff starts to smile.) Perhaps Russell was really stressed before the break because he knew he was going to propose to his girlfriend. No, seriously – he did very well today. And Kimi is just Kimi; he’s in good spirits and drives with a fresh, carefree style.”