Rain Delay: The Belgian Grand Prix was Affected
Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium – The rain that fell on one of the most revered circuits in the world of motorsports forced the drivers to wait in their garages. The weather conditions delayed the start of the race, generating diverse opinions among the competitors. The rain started almost at the same time as the drivers left the pit lane. The Belgian flag was raised under heavy rain, although it seemed to decrease as the scheduled start time approached. The accumulation of water on the track and the persistence of the rain, although with less intensity, forced the formation lap to be carried out behind the safety car. Visibility was very limited, according to the drivers.The FIA decided to delay the start of the race, arguing an improvement in the weather. This decision did not satisfy everyone.Lando Norris, who started from pole position, told McLaren that he could barely see anything, imagining how difficult it would be for the cars behind.
Lando Norris
After a 90-minute delay, Norris led the first lap of the race. Conditions improved rapidly, and most drivers switched to slick tires in the following laps. Verstappen lamented that the race was affected. Hamilton also referred to the decision, suggesting that the drivers had discussed safety in rainy conditions. George Russell, from the Grand Prix Drivers Association, defended the delay citing safety, especially in sections like Eau Rouge. The race focused on safety, recalling the tragedy of Anthoine Hubert in 2019. The race on Sunday was a reminder of the risks at Spa, with the accidents of Anthoine Hubert and Dilano van’t Hoff. The FIA’s prudence was praised by the McLaren team.Max Verstappen expressed his opinion: “At three o’clock… directly.” He considered that the track was in conditions to race.
Max Verstappen
Finally, McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris achieved a double podium. Andrea Stella, McLaren team principal, praised the FIA’s management.
