Why McLaren’s pace looks ominous after wild Zandvoort Friday

McLaren emerged as the clear favorites at the Dutch Grand Prix, with Lando Norris topping both Friday practice sessions. Data suggests a significant advantage for McLaren in both qualifying and race pace, leading rivals by over a tenth of a second. Fernando Alonso and Aston Martin provided a surprise challenge, finishing second in FP2, though their true pace remains debated. Mercedes appeared to be McLaren’s closest threat, showing strong race simulation numbers. In contrast, Max Verstappen struggled with his Red Bull, lowering his expectations for a top-five finish. Ferrari endured a 'difficult Friday,' particularly in slow corners, raising concerns about their qualifying prospects on the narrow Zandvoort circuit.