The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps was packed with high-profile performances, but it also featured several less-publicized, yet equally compelling, moments that added depth to the race weekend. One standout was the return of traditional champagne celebrations on the podium, dubbed “Spraygate.” After a string of tame post-race scenes, drivers let loose with bubbly in a nostalgic nod to Formula 1’s more festive days. Unlike the spray from the circuit’s unpredictable weather—which often prompts safety debates—this version was all joy and theatrics, reminding fans of the lighter side of the sport.
Meanwhile, rookie Ollie Bearman endured another frustrating result, finishing 11th for the fourth race in a row—just outside the points. This series of near-misses has become a disheartening pattern for the Haas driver, who’s trying to cement his place in F1. Commentator David Croft highlighted that Bearman’s streak tied a record for most consecutive finishes in the same (non-winning) position, emphasizing the cruel margin between recognition and obscurity in the sport. For Haas, who desperately need every point, these results sting all the more.
Another notable storyline was the continuing decline of Aston Martin. The team had a dismal weekend, with Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll finishing outside the top ten. Once considered dark horses in the championship race, Aston Martin is now barely ahead of Haas in the Constructors’ standings. Their poor form casts a shadow over their ambitious 2026 plans involving engineering legend Adrian Newey. While the long-term vision might still excite fans, their short-term performance is setting off alarm bells in the paddock.
In a moment that charmed fans, Mercedes junior Kimi Antonelli was spotted respectfully holding an umbrella for veteran Lewis Hamilton, now driving for Ferrari. The gesture, simple yet meaningful, symbolized a rare display of humility and mutual respect between different generations of drivers. The visual struck a chord among observers in a sport often characterized by ego and rivalry. It was a reminder that amid fierce competition, there’s still room for class and tradition.
Finally, Spa served as a poignant backdrop for remembrance. The paddock honored the late Anthoine Hubert, who tragically died at the circuit in 2019. Pierre Gasly, Hubert’s close friend, continued his annual “Run for Anthoine” and laid flowers at the site of the crash. Hubert’s mother was seen in Alpine’s garage alongside Gasly’s, reinforcing the emotional weight of the moment. These quiet tributes served as a sobering contrast to the fast-paced action, grounding the sport in its human realities beyond the racetrack.
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