The start of the 2025 Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps has been significantly delayed due to persistent wet weather. Pole-sitter Lando Norris was set to lead the grid, with Oscar Piastri and Charles Leclerc behind him, but a downpour shortly before the race forced race control to suspend proceedings. Despite a brief formation lap, conditions—particularly visibility due to spray—proved too hazardous to continue, leading to the suspension of the start procedure under a red flag
BBC’s live coverage showed the drivers idling in their garages as fans in ponchos danced in the stands to loud music, trying to stay upbeat despite the delay. Veteran commentator Damon Hill described the scene as “skittles on ice,” emphasizing the unpredictable danger of racing in such conditions. Spa’s high-speed corners amplify the risk, even in dry conditions, so visibility concerns raised by drivers during the formation lap were taken seriously by officials.
Frustration was evident among both fans and drivers. Max Verstappen expressed annoyance at the delay, citing the likelihood of continued rain making it difficult to find a better window. Fans who had traveled far and endured heavy showers voiced their disappointment, questioning if the sport was becoming overly cautious. Some, however, praised the safety-first approach, referencing famous wet-weather races like Senna’s Donington 1993 drive.
Weather forecasters provided live updates, noting that the edge of the current rain band was about 15 kilometers away, suggesting a possible improvement within 30 minutes. Still, new showers were forecasted soon after, leaving race organizers in a difficult position with no clear window to start safely. The FIA continued to monitor conditions, but no immediate restart time was announced.
The delay also marked an important moment for Red Bull, with Laurent Mekies stepping in for the first time as team principal following Christian Horner’s dismissal. Meanwhile, Verstappen had claimed victory in Saturday’s sprint race, adding tension to Sunday’s main event. As the uncertainty dragged on, fans tuned in to BBC Radio 5 Live for updates while social media buzzed with opinions, memories of classic rain races, and calls to “let them race.”
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