The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps faced significant delays due to poor weather and reduced visibility, with race officials opting for a rolling start after an extended wait. Max Verstappen criticized the FIA for being overly cautious, expressing frustration over what he considered unnecessary safety measures that prolonged the wait.
Spa-Francorchamps is known for its unpredictable wet conditions, famously causing the 2021 event to be abandoned after just a few laps behind the Safety Car, awarding half points based on current positions. This weekend’s weather challenges once again sparked concern among officials, but Verstappen sees the recent delay as an excessive response.
Red Bull’s Verstappen Prepared for Rain but Found Delay Excessive
The four-time world champion, recognized as a traditionalist who embraces racing in tough conditions, shared that his team fitted a rear wing optimized for wet weather. However, Verstappen remarked that the track was nearly suitable for slick tires almost immediately, making the rain setup unnecessary and the safety concerns exaggerated.
We put on a wing for the rain, but in the end we barely drove in the rain so that was worthless. It was all very safe, the decisions were too careful which is disappointing. —Max Verstappen, post-race
He also addressed the perception that he was held up behind rival Charles Leclerc, denying it and stating they maintained similar pace after running on intermediate tires. Verstappen pointed out that even though Leclerc initially pulled away, a mistake allowed him to close the gap again.
Verstappen Calls Delay ‘Shameful’ and Lost Opportunity for Classic Wet Race
The race was delayed for over an hour while officials ensured conditions met safety standards, mainly focused on visibility for a high-speed circuit like Spa. Despite this, Verstappen firmly argued there was no real need to postpone the race. He described the delay as a “shame,” lamenting the missed chance for what could have been a memorable wet-weather race. By the time the event finally began, the track had mostly dried, removing the dramatic wet racing element fans had hoped to see.
We could’ve went miles earlier, an hour earlier. It was a bit of a shame. It just ruins a nice classic wet race as well so, we either still push to go for a wet race or we just stop racing in the wet and we wait for it to be dry. But that’s not what you want, right? —Max Verstappen
The Balance Between Safety and Spectacle at Spa-Francorchamps
While Verstappen’s frustration reflects a desire for more aggressive racing under challenging conditions, Formula 1 officials emphasize safety as paramount, especially given Spa’s history. The circuit was the site of tragic incidents, most notably the death of F2 driver Anthoine Hubert in 2021. Officials’ cautious decisions aim to prevent accidents in low-visibility and slippery conditions, justifying delays despite fan disappointment.
This tension between driver desires for intense racing and the FIA’s protective stance highlights ongoing debates over risk management in Formula 1, particularly on hazardous tracks like Spa-Francorchamps.
What Verstappen’s Complaints Signal for Future Grand Prix Safety Decisions
Verstappen’s outspoken critique of the FIA’s cautious protocols comes at a time when discussions about balancing safety and entertainment are actively evolving in F1 circles. His call for more assertive racing despite adverse conditions may influence teams and governing bodies as they assess how to handle weather disruptions going forward.
Ultimately, the incident at the Belgian GP could prompt the FIA to review its approach to weather delays, weighing risks against fan experience and driver preferences, though safety will remain the overriding concern.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Max Verstappen a millionaire?
A. According to Celebrity Net Worth, Verstappen’s estimated wealth is around $200 million.
Q. Is Max Verstappen rich?
A. Max Verstappen has earned $217 million (£163m). He joined the Red Bull Racing team in 2016 and quickly became a standout driver. He won his first F1 world championship in 2021. This win confirmed his status as one of the top drivers in the sport. He then secured additional championship titles in 2022, 2023, and 2024.
Q. What is Max Verstappen’s baby gender?
A. Max Verstappen and his girlfriend, Kelly Piquet, had a baby girl named Lily on Saturday. Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team leader, stated that Lily’s birth won’t affect Verstappen’s racing performance.
Q. What gender is Max Verstappen’s baby?
A. Verstappen and Piquet recently shared the news of their baby daughter, Lily, being born. They had announced their pregnancy plans before the 2024 season-ending race in Abu Dhabi. Lily now joins her older sister, Penelope, as a new family member.