The 2025 Formula 1 season resumes this weekend at the historic Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium, featuring an exciting Sprint format that adds extra points to the championship chase. Notably, this event marks the first race for Red Bull Racing without their long-time team principal, Christian Horner, who was dismissed after over 20 years in charge. Laurent Mekies has been appointed as his successor, ushering in a new era for the team.
The aftermath of Horner’s departure has dominated the conversation leading up to the race weekend. His sacking came shortly after the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, leaving many to speculate on the reasons behind the decision. Reports suggest that Max Verstappen‘s future with the team could be a factor, raising questions about the dynamics within the team as they prepare for the Belgian Grand Prix.
Horner stated he was given no clear reasons for his dismissal. As the team adjusts to this significant change, all eyes will be on Mekies, who will address the media on Friday afternoon. He is expected to face questions regarding the timing of Horner’s removal, especially in light of Verstappen’s performance this season. Currently, Verstappen trails championship leader Oscar Piastri by 69 points, raising concerns about Red Bull’s competitive edge as they continue to struggle compared to rivals like McLaren.
On track, Red Bull’s performance has been inconsistent. Despite securing pole position at Silverstone, Verstappen faced difficulties during the race, particularly in wet conditions. With mixed weather expected at Spa-Francorchamps, the team will need to decide whether to implement a high top-speed setup or focus on race trim, a critical consideration given the unpredictable Belgian weather.
Title Battle Intensifies Between Norris and Piastri
The championship battle between Lando Norris and Piastri is heating up. Norris has gained momentum following consecutive victories in Austria and Great Britain, narrowing the gap to just eight points behind Piastri. This weekend’s Sprint event offers additional points, creating a potential opportunity for Norris to reclaim the championship lead.
The fourth Sprint weekend of the season introduces a new dynamic, with eight points available for the winner of Saturday’s Sprint and the usual 25 points for the race winner on Sunday. Norris’s recent success can be attributed to a switch to a new suspension setup, which he believes has improved his confidence and performance on the track.
“I believe in the team and their decision to try something new. Winning two races has boosted my confidence, but I also credit my hard work and commitment to improving,” Norris explained. His approach contrasts with Piastri, who has opted to stick with the older suspension setup. The decisions made this weekend could significantly influence their championship standings as the season progresses.
Ferrari and Tyre Strategies Take Centre Stage
Ferrari has also made headlines with their recent upgrades, including a new floor introduced at the Austrian Grand Prix. Following strong results, including a podium finish for Charles Leclerc, the team is eager to build on this momentum. Leclerc and teammate Lewis Hamilton recently conducted a filming day at Mugello, where they tested a new rear suspension. This upgrade aims to provide both drivers with a larger operating window, enabling more effective car setups moving forward.
As the teams prepare for the weekend, tyre strategy will play a crucial role. For the first time in over three years, Pirelli has chosen a unique tyre allocation, opting for the C1, C3, and C4 compounds. This change is expected to create a more competitive two-stop strategy for Sunday’s race, adding an element of uncertainty to the teams’ preparations.
With only 12 sets of tyres available for the Sprint weekend, teams will navigate the challenges of managing limited data while striving for optimal performance. The forecast of rain throughout the weekend further complicates matters, making tyre management a critical factor in determining success at Spa-Francorchamps.
As the 2025 Formula 1 season resumes, the unfolding drama surrounding Red Bull’s leadership change and the intensified rivalry between Norris and Piastri promises an exhilarating weekend of racing in Belgium. Fans can expect a thrilling spectacle as the championship battle heats up on the iconic track.
