The Formula 1 race in Belgium was dramatically impacted by challenging, rain-affected conditions, ultimately resulting in a victory for McLaren’s Oscar Piastri. His teammate, Lando Norris, secured a second-place finish, while Charles Leclerc of Ferrari rounded out the top three.
The race’s start was significantly delayed due to the wet track. Originally scheduled for 3:00 PM local time, the green flag wasn’t waved until 4:20 PM. The initial laps were completed behind the safety car, despite visible signs of the track beginning to dry in several areas. A standing start was ultimately deemed unsuitable and the race commenced with a rolling start.
Following the official start, Piastri swiftly overtook Norris. The field remained relatively static for a period after that initial maneuver. A key strategic difference emerged as Norris made the bold decision to switch from intermediate to hard tires, while the majority of competitors opted for the medium compound. However, this gamble didn’t alter the race’s outcome, as Piastri was able to complete the remaining distance on the medium tires, ultimately retaining his lead.
Max Verstappen of Red Bull secured fourth place, followed by George Russell (Mercedes), Alex Albon (Williams), Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari) and Liam Lawson (Racing Bulls). Gabriel Bortoleto earned two points for Sauber, finishing ninth, with Pierre Gasly (Alpine) securing one point in tenth place. Nico Hülkenberg, the sole German driver in the race, concluded the Grand Prix in twelfth position.
The next race on the Formula 1 calendar is scheduled for next week in Hungary.
