Russell holds off Hamilton for Mercedes 1-2 in Belgium

George Russell narrowly beat team-mate Lewis Hamilton to a remarkable win on an unlikely one-stop strategy in the Belgian Grand Prix as Mercedes finished first and second to continue their impressive Formula 1 resurgence. McLaren’s Oscar Piastri took the final podium place in third just 1.1s behind Russell as the top three finished almost nose-to-nail across the line while championship leader Max Verstappen rose from P11 to finish P5 ahead of rival Lando Norris.

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Leclerc on pole in Belgium as Verstappen takes grid penalty

Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc will start the Belgian Grand Prix from pole position after qualifying second fastest behind Red Bull’s Max Verstappen. World champion Verstappen dominated qualifying in the rain and beat Leclerc by 0.595 seconds but has a 10-place grid penalty for exceeding his permitted number of engine components. Red Bull’s Sergio Perez was third fastest, so will be promoted to the front row alongside Leclerc.

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Late own-goal sees France edge out Belgium

A late own goal by Jan Vertonghen sent France into the quarter-finals of Euro 2024 at Belgium’s expense. A game that had lacked quality and excitement for large periods looked destined for extra time, but a shot by substitute Randal Kolo Muani deflected off Vertonghen with five minutes remaining to seal the victory at Dusseldorf Arena. France had missed several chances before that as once again their lack of a cutting edge let them down.

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Belgium stutter into last 16 despite draw with Ukraine

Belgium reached the knockout stages of Euro 2024 as group runners-up – but Ukraine exited the competition following their goalless draw in Stuttgart. Ukraine knew they needed a win to progress but they were unable to make an impact – limiting Belgium to few chances but lacking a consistent attacking threat of their own until late on.

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Belgium back on track with crucial win over Romania

Kevin De Bruyne inspired Belgium to the first Euro 2024 victory they desperately required with a virtuoso display in a thrilling victory over Romania in Cologne. Belgium were under pressure after an opening loss to Slovakia but responded emphatically after Youri Tielemans scored after 73 seconds. De Bruyne added a second 11 minutes from time to put the result beyond doubt.

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