Formula 1 Belgian Grand Prix: Full Schedule and Key Storylines

The 2025 Formula 1 season reignites with a Sprint weekend at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit in Belgium. The Drivers' Championship battle is heating up, with McLaren teammates Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris locked in a tight contest. Norris's back-to-back victories at the Red Bull Ring and Silverstone have narrowed the gap to just eight points behind Piastri, setting the stage for a thrilling showdown.

Why it matters

The championship fight between Piastri and Norris is intensifying, adding significant intrigue to the Belgian GP. While Max Verstappen trails Piastri by 69 points, his strong fan support at Spa, combined with the circuit's characteristics, makes him a formidable contender. This weekend also marks a new era for Red Bull Racing as Laurent Mekies steps into the team principal role following Christian Horner's departure, a move that will be closely watched. Teams have used the three-week break to finalize upgrades, preparing for the intense second half of the season before shifting focus to the 2026 regulations. Ferrari and Mercedes, strong at Spa last year, aim to challenge McLaren, especially with the added complexity of a Sprint format and expected rain.

The circuit: Spa-Francorchamps

At 4.352 miles (7.004km), the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is F1's longest and one of its fastest tracks. It features legendary corners like Eau Rouge, Pouhon, and Blanchimont. The first sector, including the Kemmel Straight after Eau Rouge and Raidillon, offers prime overtaking opportunities. The middle sector is known for its fast, flowing corners, while the final sector demands excellent straight-line speed into the Bus Stop chicane. Michael Schumacher holds the record for most wins here with six victories.

Weather outlook

Spa-Francorchamps is notorious for its unpredictable weather, with the Ardennes Forest often trapping moisture. Current forecasts indicate a high likelihood of rain throughout the race weekend, impacting Friday, Saturday, and Sunday sessions.

Belgian GP Schedule (UK Times)

Thursday, July 24

• 1:00 PM: Driver's Press Conference

Friday, July 25

• 7:55 AM: F3 Practice
• 9:05 AM: F2 Practice
• 11:30 AM: Practice One
• 12:55 PM: F3 Qualifying
• 1:50 PM: F2 Qualifying
• 3:30 PM: Sprint Qualifying

Saturday, July 26

• 8:10 AM: F3 Sprint Race
• 11:00 AM: Belgian GP Sprint Race
• 12:40 PM: F2 Sprint Race
• 3:00 PM: Belgian GP Qualifying

Sunday, July 27

• 7:25 AM: F3 Feature Race
• 8:55 AM: F2 Feature Race
• 10:40 AM: Porsche Supercup Race
• 2:00 PM: THE BELGIAN GRAND PRIX