Belgian Grand Prix 2025: F1 Preview, Times, Predictions, Stats, Fun Facts
The Belgian Grand Prix returns to Spa-Francorchamps for round 13 of the 2025 Formula 1 season. Following a thrilling British Grand Prix that saw Lando Norris triumph and Nico Hülkenberg secure his maiden podium, the championship race intensifies as Mclaren continues to dominate both driver and constructor standings. As anticipation builds for this weekend’s sprint event, drivers look to make a mark on one of the most iconic circuits in motorsport.
Circuit History & Statistics
Legendary Venue
The Spa-Francorchamps circuit is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and challenging layout. Since its first F1 race in 1950, it has become synonymous with thrilling racing.
- First F1 Race: 1950
- Circuit Length: 7 km (44 laps; total race distance 308 km)
- Lap Record: 1:44.701, Sergio Pérez (2024)
- Most Wins: Michael Schumacher (6 wins)
- Most Poles: Lewis Hamilton (6 poles)
Weather Forecast
Rain on the Horizon
The weather adds to Spa’s unpredictability, with showers expected throughout the weekend:
- Friday: Light showers, highs of 20°C (68°F)
- Saturday: Similar temperatures, mostly cloudy
- Sunday: Continued rain, with highs remaining in the high teens
McLaren’s Momentum
Championship Landscape
As the McLaren duo of Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris sits at the top of the championship standings, tensions rise within the team. Piastri leads with just an eight-point margin over Norris, but both drivers are far ahead of third-place Max Verstappen, who trails by 61 points.
Red Bull Reshuffle
New Leadership
In a surprising twist, Red Bull Racing has reshuffled its management, appointing Laurent Mekies as the new team principal after the dismissal of Christian Horner. This move raises questions about the future of star driver Verstappen, who continues to draw interest from Mercedes.
Predictions for the Weekend
Who Will Take Victory?
While Norris has shown strong form, predictions lean towards Oscar Piastri clinching victory for the first time since Spain, making the most of McLaren’s current momentum.
Viewing Information
Fans looking to catch the action can tune into:
- UK: Sky Sports F1, BBC Radio 5 Live
- US: ESPN, ESPN+
Session Times (BST)
- Friday:
- Free Practice 1: 11:30-12:30
- Sprint Qualifying: 15:30-16:14
- Saturday:
- Sprint Race: 11:00-12:00
- Qualifying: 15:00-16:00
- Sunday:
- Race Start: 14:00 (live commentary from 13:15)
Fun Facts About Spa-Francorchamps
- Home Crowd: Max Verstappen was born in Belgium, linking him closely to Spa as his home race.
- Historical Significance: Spa is one of the original circuits from F1’s inaugural season, with only two missed editions since its inception.
- Challenging Circuit: The Eau Rouge–Raidillon complex is renowned for testing the skill of drivers at full throttle.
As the Belgian Grand Prix approaches, all eyes will be on Spa, where history and talent collide once again on the track.