The Grand Prix of Belgium on the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit was overshadowed last weekend due to heavy rainfall, but Max Verstappen again managed to focus the spotlight. The four -time world champion of Red Bull Racing dominated the Sprintrace and was praised none other than Nico Rosberg, the world champion of 2016. Rosberg, now analyst at Sky Sports F1, praised Verstappens “absolutely brilliant” performance in the sprint race, senting a less fast car to the victory under immense pressure. “From the outside it sometimes seems easier, but in the car Max drove slower than the McLaren. Oscar Piastri was only 0.6 to 0.7 seconds behind him all the time,” said Rosberg, who emphasized the mental and physical strength of Verstappen.
The Sprintrace was a masterpiece of precision and cold -bloodedness. Verstappen started from pole and was in charge, despite the constant threat of Piastri’s faster McLaren. Rosberg explained why this performance was so impressive: “As a leader you have no room for mistakes. Every round must be perfect, while your tires wear and the car becomes lighter due to fuel consumption. Max balanced on the limit, with Piastri who continuously put it under pressure.” This praise from a former champion underlines Verstappens exceptional talent, especially because he drove a car that could not compete with the McLarens at pure speed.
But while Verstappen shone in the Sprintrace, the main race was plagued by heavy rainfall on Sunday, which led to a controversial decision of the FIA. The start of the Grand Prix was postponed after a formation round behind the Safety Car, due to poor visibility. The red flag was shown, and the drivers returned to the pits. Verstappen was clearly frustrated about this decision. He said about the on -board radio: “This is a bit stupid. We just have to drive a few laps. They are way too careful. Now there is more heavy rain, and then it will be a three -hour delay.” His words reflect the opinion of a driver who is known for his courage in challenging circumstances, such as his legendary performance in the Rain Race of Brazil in 2016.
The rain played a major role all weekend. The Formula 3 race was canceled earlier in the day after incidents due to poor visibility, and the Formula 2 race started behind the Safety Car. Pirelli chef Mario Isola had already warned about the weather conditions, and the FIA confirmed that further rain showers were on the way to Spa. Lando Norris, who started from pole, reported about the on -board radio that the track was not extremely slippery, but that the view behind the Safety Car was minimal. “I can barely see anything, let alone what it’s like for the others,” he said. This sentiment was widely shared, which explains the FIA’s cautious approach, despite Verstappen’s plea for racing.
For Red Bull Racing, now led by the new team boss Laurent Mekies after the departure of Christian Horner, the Sprintrace was an important success. However, Verstappen started the main race from P4, which shows that the RB21 is still struggling with pure speed compared to McLaren. Still, Verstappen remains a class of its own. His ability to perform under pressure, even in a less competitive car, makes him a formidable title candidate. This season is more challenging than his dominant 2023, in which he won 19 out of 22 races, but his fighting spirit and precision remain unparalleled.
Rosberg’s praise and Verstappens frustration about the Fia’s decision together form a striking picture of the Dutchman: a driver who always demands the maximum, of himself and of the circumstances. While the rain in Spa caused delays, Verstappen remains focused on success. With the expectation of more rain during the main race, his experience in wet conditions will probably play a crucial role. One thing is certain: whether it is dry or raining, Max Verstappen remains the man to beat.
