HIGHLIGHTS: Watch the action from FP2 in Zandvoort as Russell sets the pace while Hulkenberg crashes out

Mercedes demonstrated that their rediscovered pace from just before the summer break is here to stay, as George Russell led the field in the second practice session of the Dutch Grand Prix ahead of Oscar Piastri and team mate Lewis Hamilton.

In contrast to this morning’s practice session, the Zandvoort track filled with cars rapidly as all of the drivers headed out into much brighter conditions, although the sunnier weather didn’t benefit everyone. George Russell had an unusual lock-up early on which saw him end up in the gravel at Turn 9, shortly before Sergio Perez took a similar trip at Turn 1.

FP2: Russell leads Piastri and Hamilton in tight second practice at Zandvoort

Several other competitors had issues too, with Oscar Piastri complaining that he could not see through his visor while home hero Max Verstappen veered onto the kerb before returning to the pits.

Soon after, Nico Hulkenberg brought out the red flags as he skidded into the barrier at Turn 1, bringing his Friday to an early end. There was also bad news for the Ferrari camp too, as a gearbox issue forced Carlos Sainz to end his FP2 prematurely.

Things looked more positive for the Mercedes-powered cars as both the Mercedes and McLaren drivers found themselves in the top four for most of the session, with just 1s separating the top 14.

Hit go on the video player above to watch the highlights from FP2 in Zandvoort.