Max Verstappen expressed his wish that the Belgian Grand Prix had started earlier than it eventually did on Sunday afternoon. The Dutchman made this comment after the race, receiving support from the likes of Lewis Hamilton.
“I think we could have started earlier,” Verstappen shared at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. He was referring to the delayed start due to heavy rainfall. Once the rain had subsided, the drivers were sent back onto the track after an hour and twenty minutes. They had to drive several laps behind the safety car, a decision that also surprised Hamilton: “I don’t understand why we didn’t then have a standing start. It could have been done, the asphalt was dry enough.”
Piastri and Leclerc
Not everyone shared this view. Charles Leclerc pointed out the dangers of the Ardennes circuit during the post-race press conference. “And then I understand that the race management also takes this into account and perhaps does not want to take too much risk.” Oscar Piastri agreed with this sentiment. “You have to consider that, I think.” However, he added, “Maybe we could have driven one less lap behind the safety car.”
