P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen makes INCREDIBLE start after McLaren horror show at Belgian Grand Prix
Max Verstappen took the lead of the sprint race at the Belgian Grand Prix with a stunning overtake on Oscar Piastri at Les Combes on the opening lap, boosting his championship prospects significantly. Despite starting the weekend 69 points behind Piastri, Verstappen’s early move was pivotal in closing the gap. Lando Norris lost a position to Charles Leclerc on Kemmel straight but quickly regained third place by lap four, while Verstappen and Piastri extended their lead. Piastri’s slight mistake allowed Norris to catch up, as Lewis Hamilton struggled in the midfield and the grid prepared for qualifying. Verstappen’s strong performance at Spa set the stage for an intense F1 title battle, with the championship race heating up between the top drivers.
