The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix is expected to face challenging and unpredictable weather, typical of the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. Known for its variable climate, Spa often experiences rain in one section of the track while another remains dry. This weekend, those trademark conditions look likely to return, potentially disrupting what will be the third sprint event of the Formula 1 season.
On Friday, July 26, there will be a single practice session and the sprint qualifying. Rain is forecast to hit the circuit in the morning, although Free Practice 1 should remain dry. Sprint qualifying later in the day may be affected by rain, with temperatures hovering around 22°C. These inconsistent conditions could shake up team strategies and driver performances throughout the day.
Saturday, July 27, is anticipated to be the most stable day of the weekend, with minimal chances of rain. Both the sprint race and the full qualifying session for Sunday’s Grand Prix will take place, offering teams a brief respite from the chaos of wet-weather racing. However, this temporary calm won’t last, as Sunday’s main event is expected to see a significant weather shift.
Race day is forecast to bring intense rainfall, especially around the 14:00 BST race start. Large rain systems will be moving across the northern and eastern parts of the circuit, increasing the probability of a wet and unpredictable race. This will likely demand quick thinking and adaptability from teams and drivers alike, echoing past dramatic events at Spa.
Wind direction is another factor this weekend. On Friday and Saturday, a north-west wind will produce a headwind at La Source and a tailwind down the Kemmel Straight. By Sunday, however, the wind is expected to shift to the west, generating a cross-wind at the high-speed Eau Rouge and Radillion section. The last time the Belgian GP was severely affected by rain was in 2021, when the race was abandoned after a single lap, resulting in half-points being awarded. Similar drama could return this year.
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