Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team experienced a dynamic qualifying session at Spa-Francorchamps for the Belgian Grand Prix, navigating changing track conditions to secure solid starting positions. Both Lewis Hamilton and George Russell demonstrated skillful driving in the tricky session, ultimately positioning themselves well for Sunday’s race.
The qualifying session began with Q1 under damp conditions, prompting teams to opt for intermediate tyres. Lewis Hamilton and George Russell commenced Q1 on used intermediate tyres, the same set they had utilized at the end of Q1. As the session progressed, the track began to dry, particularly in the middle sector. However, the newly resurfaced sections in sectors one and three were slower to dry, adding an extra layer of complexity to tyre strategy and car setup.
Midway through Q2, with the track continuing to improve, both Mercedes drivers returned to the pits to switch to fresh intermediate tyres. This strategic decision allowed them to capitalize on the rapidly drying track in the crucial final minutes of Q2. Hamilton and Russell maximized their performance, securing P2 and P3 respectively in Q2. This strong showing ensured their safe passage to Q3, the final segment of qualifying, although the looming threat of rain for Q3 added an element of uncertainty.
Anticipating potential rainfall in Q3, the Mercedes team prioritized track position. Hamilton and Russell were at the front of the pit lane queue as Q3 commenced, aiming to get out on track as quickly as possible and secure valuable lap time before any rain could impact conditions.
On their initial flying laps in Q3, Hamilton and Russell initially held P1 and P3. However, the anticipated challenge from Red Bull Racing materialized, with both Red Bull cars subsequently pushing the Mercedes drivers down the order. On their second push laps, both Hamilton and Russell improved their lap times, but their positions remained static at P3 and P6. McLaren drivers also showed impressive pace, splitting the two Mercedes cars on the timing sheets.
In a dramatic final run, Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, on fresh intermediate tyres, managed to slot into P2, separating Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez of Red Bull. This shuffle in the order meant Lewis Hamilton and George Russell ultimately slipped back to P4 and P7. However, a subsequent 10-place grid penalty for Max Verstappen due to exceeding power unit elements promoted both Mercedes drivers up one position on the starting grid.
Therefore, George Russell will start the Belgian Grand Prix from P3, and Lewis Hamilton will line up in P6 for the final race before the Formula 1 summer break. The Belgian Grand Prix is scheduled to commence at 15:00 local time (14:00 BST).