The centenary edition of the Belgian Grand Prix descended into chaos as torrential rain battered the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, forcing race officials to suspend proceedings. Following the abandonment of an earlier Formula 3 race under similar conditions, Formula One faced a comparable fate, with the FIA intervening after drivers reported perilously low visibility.
The race commenced with competitors on intermediate tyres for the formation lap, yet relentless rainfall prompted race control to issue an immediate red flag. McLaren’s polesitter, Lando Norris, lamented the near-impossibility of racing under such circumstances, confessing over team radio that visibility behind the safety car was virtually nonexistent—a sentiment echoed throughout the grid. With further downpours anticipated, projections indicated the main event might not restart until late in the afternoon.
However, reigning world champion Max Verstappen voiced staunch disapproval of the FIA’s conservative stance. Over team radio, his frustration was palpable as he implored officials to allow drivers to circulate despite the adverse weather. “Well, that’s just a bit silly,” he quipped, urging, “We should just run a few laps, like chillax, Jesus. They’re way too cautious, now the heavy rain is coming and then it’s gonna be a few hours delay.” Verstappen argued that immediate action could pre-empt a lengthier stoppage.
The scenario evoked memories of Spa 2021, when only two laps were completed behind the safety car before a red flag curtailed proceedings entirely, handing Verstappen a controversial victory. As speculation mounted regarding a potential repeat, race control reiterated F1’s procedural rules: a complete race classification requires a minimum of two laps, while partial distances award half points, and surpassing 75% secures full points.
Ultimately, the FIA confirmed the Grand Prix would resume at 16:20 local time, once again commencing behind the safety car. This announcement quelled mounting anxiety among fans eager for competitive action, even as the controversy surrounding safety measures and Verstappen’s candid criticism continued to dominate discussion within the paddock and beyond.
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