The Belgian Grand Prix returns this weekend, bringing Formula 1 back to one of its most iconic and challenging venues: Spa-Francorchamps. Known for its sweeping elevation changes, unpredictable weather, and high-speed corners, Spa is a fan and driver favourite for good reason. Nestled deep in the Ardennes Forest, the circuit demands a perfectly balanced car, brave driving, and often, a dose of luck with the skies. And in 2025, the stage is set for another fascinating race weekend.
This year, Pirelli has opted for a slightly unusual tyre allocation: the C1, C3, and C4 compounds. Notably, there’s no C2 in the mix. That’s because Pirelli introduced a new compound this year called the C0, effectively shifting the scale. The C1 now resembles last year’s C2 in characteristics — easier warm-up and greater durability, making it a potential candidate for one-stop strategies in dry conditions. However, with C3 and C4 being softer and easier to bring into the optimal window, the tyre strategy might be influenced heavily by the weather.
Speaking of weather, rain is a perennial factor at Spa, and the 2025 edition is no exception. While forecasts are currently inconclusive, Sunday appears particularly vulnerable to rainfall. Given Spa’s microclimate and its location in the Ardennes, weather conditions can change in an instant, adding another unpredictable element to an already complex race weekend. To add further spice, this weekend is also a Sprint format. With limited time to set up the car, teams will need to be sharp in their preparation.
Spa is a circuit that tests every aspect of an F1 car. It features low, medium, and high-speed corners, long straights, and requires excellent DRS efficiency, particularly after the Kemmel Straight. It’s a track that exposes both strengths and weaknesses, demanding a setup that can deliver in all conditions. Rear tyre wear will be especially important due to the sequence of medium-speed corners and high-speed sections taken flat out. Engine power also plays a major role, which is why most teams will bring low-downforce rear wings to maximise straight-line performance.
From a performance standpoint, McLaren is expected to be in strong shape this weekend. Their consistent pace in both high- and low-speed sections should serve them well, especially in Spa’s critical middle sector. Ferrari is also likely to fight for the podium, particularly in dry conditions, provided their latest upgrades deliver as expected.
Red Bull and Max Verstappen are, of course, contenders. While McLaren may have the edge on paper, Verstappen remains a big candidate for victory if conditions are dry and Red Bull hits the sweet spot with their setup.
Mercedes, meanwhile, appears to be operating just behind the top three teams. They currently seem to have fourth-row pace and may be battling for positions just outside the podium. It remains to be seen how their performance will evolve with the upgrades introduced this weekend.
In the midfield, Racing Bulls, Haas, Kick Sauber, and Williams are likely to battle closely for points, while Aston Martin and Alpine may struggle to keep pace. Expect a tight fight throughout the grid, particularly with variable weather in play.
As your Paddock Queen, my prediction for the Top 10 for the 2025 Belgian GP Race Results:
1) Lando Norris
2) Oscar Piastri
3) Max Verstappen
4) Charles Leclerc
5) George Russell
6) Alex Albon
7) Esteban Ocon
8) Isack Hadjar
9) Gabriel Bortoleto
10) Fernando Alonso
As always, Spa promises a mix of drama, strategy, and surprises. With sprint format, changeable conditions, and a field closer than ever, the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix is shaping up to be one of the most unpredictable rounds of the season.
The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix will begin at 5:00 PM UAE time on Sunday. Don’t miss what’s sure to be an electrifying race at Spa-Francorchamps.
