Formula 1 returns to action in Belgium, at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, after a two-week pause. Ferrari will line up with a new rear suspension, tested at Mugello in recent days, which could give fresh impetus to the Maranello team as they look for improved performance from an evolving SF-25 in this stage of the season. McLaren remain the favourites, although the layout of the Belgian track could play to the strengths of the Prancing Horse’s car.
McLaren are clear favourites for the win. Ferrari, however – with their new rear suspension yet to be fully assessed – could perform strongly based on what was seen at Silverstone. The SF-25 looked extremely quick in Britain, at least while the weather stayed dry: Spa’s characteristics should suit it in much the same way. Red Bull will be there to battle with Verstappen, and Mercedes, theoretically, might start a step behind the competition. Everything will depend, in any case, on the work teams will have to squeeze into the single free practice session of the weekend. The presence of the Sprint Race, in fact, leaves no room for errors or experimentation.
Verstappen arrives at Spa with just two wins so far this season and is targeting redemption at his home Grand Prix. Lewis Hamilton, meanwhile, still has the disappointment of Silverstone fresh in his mind: a bitter fourth place that left him off the podium. In Belgium, he will aim for the Sprint Race to secure a better starting position for Sunday.
F1, McLaren dominance at Spa: Piastri wins, Norris second, Leclerc on the podium
28 Jul - 15:15 •
1' min
