formula 1
You have to watch out for that at the Belgian Grand Prix
As second in the World Cup, he is already 80 points behind Max Verstappen: Charles Leclerc from the Ferrari team. photo
© Hasan Bratic/dpa
In the first race after the summer break, Formula 1 offers an unusual picture. The two world championship leaders Max Verstappen and Charles Leclerc have many drivers ahead of them at the start in Belgium.
Formula 1 can look forward to a turbulent Grand Prix in Belgium.
A series of starting place penalties shook the field for the 14th round of the season at Spa-Francorchamps on Sunday (3 p.m. / Sky). World champion Max Verstappen and challenger Charles Leclerc have to catch up from the back field.
top speed:
In Friday training and in qualifying, Red Bull star Verstappen was significantly faster than everyone else. Because engine parts were exchanged without permission on the Dutchman’s car, the race stewards banished him to starting position 15. Verstappen announced that a storming trip to the podium was the minimum with the lightning-fast Red Bull. “They are extremely fast, just way too fast,” complained World Cup rival Charles Leclerc.
Slipstream:
Ferrari driver Leclerc sorts himself in right next to Verstappen at the start. Like five other drivers, his car was also modified in a way that violated the rules. Because Monegasse, second in the World Cup, is already 80 points behind Verstappen, he urgently needs a turnaround in the title race. But in Spa it doesn’t look like Leclerc can stay with the champion. “When you see the gap to Max, it’s a bit scary,” said the 24-year-old.
duster:
Carlos Sainz grabbed second place behind Verstappen in qualifying and is allowed to start first because of his penalty. After Silverstone, the Ferrari driver can look forward to his second career victory. However, the Scuderia has often missed the best chances this year due to mistakes and inability. Does that open the door for Sergio Perez, who will start from second in the second Red Bull?
Anniversary:
30 years have passed since Michael Schumacher clinched his first Formula 1 victory at Spa. Son Mick will hardly manage a similar feat on Sunday. The Haas pilot starts last. After all, thanks to a package of innovations on his company car, he can hope to be able to advertise an extension of his expiring contract in the race. “Spa is always full of action. I’m sure it will be like that again,” said Schumacher.