P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Max Verstappen and Red Bull made an ominous start to a Belgian Grand Prix weekend in which he needs to take a 10-place grid penalty
Formula 1 is currently experiencing an exciting season with seven different race winners in 2024, including six different winners over the past eight races. Spa is known as a peak circuit for reigning champion Max Verstappen and Red Bull, cautioning that the tide may not have definitively turned against them despite the rise of McLaren and Mercedes. Verstappen showed strong performance in FP1, setting the pace ahead of Piastri’s McLaren. Despite facing a 10-place grid penalty, Verstappen’s performance suggests he could still be a strong contender for the race win. McLaren boss Zak Brown highlighted that Verstappen’s capabilities should not be underestimated, especially in the middle sector of the circuit. Perez, although challenged during FP1, could still be a significant factor if he tunes the Red Bull to his liking during the weekend.
