Following an unpredictable run of results, Formula 1 returns to the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit for the Belgian Grand Prix this weekend.
With the championship battle continuing to heat up, several teams will be looking to build momentum before the summer break, while others hope to bounce back from disappointing recent performances.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix, including the weekend schedule and what to expect from one of Formula One’s most challenging circuits.
Weekend schedule
The Belgian Grand Prix will begin on Friday, July 17, with FP1 scheduled to start at 12:30 BST, followed by FP2 at 16:00 BST.
The following day, viewers will see the final practice session at 12:30 BST before qualifying gets underway at 15:00 BST.
The main race will take place on Sunday, July 19, with lights out scheduled for 15:00 BST.
Race preview
Following Charles Leclerc’s impressive win at Silverstone two weeks ago, Formula One fans can expect the unexpected this race weekend.
Last year, the Spa-Francorchamps circuit saw McLaren driver Oscar Piastri take victory, with team-mate Lando Norris and Ferrari’s Leclerc joining him on the podium.
As McLaren have declined in competitive ability due to electrical issues and engine problems, this year’s Belgian Grand Prix may see some of its previous winners return to the podium.
Belgium predictions
With many strong drivers ready to show their worth, this Belgian Grand Prix is set to be a close race.
Here are some of the names we can expect to see on the podium this weekend.
1 – Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari)
Hamilton heads to Spa-Francorchamps as one of the most successful drivers in the circuit’s history, having claimed five victories between 2010 and 2024.
The seven-time world champion also arrives in Belgium with confidence after securing victory earlier this season in Barcelona-Catalunya.
With his wealth of experience and proven ability to deliver in changing conditions, Hamilton will be looking to add a sixth Belgian Grand Prix win to his impressive record.
2 – Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
Fresh off his victory at the British Grand Prix, Leclerc arrives in Belgium with momentum firmly on his side.
Ferrari’s pace has improved significantly, and Leclerc’s qualifying speed could prove crucial around Spa.
The Monegasque claimed his maiden Formula One victory at Spa-Francorchamps in 2019 and has consistently shown strong pace around the iconic circuit.
Having already tasted success at Spa and coming off a confidence-boosting win at Silverstone, Leclerc will be aiming to add another Belgian Grand Prix victory to his growing résumé.
3 – Kimi Antonelli (Mercedes)
Antonelli arrives at Spa-Francorchamps leading the 2026 Drivers’ Championship after a record-breaking start to his second Formula One season.
The Italian has stunned the paddock with his maturity, consistency and outright pace, quickly establishing himself as the benchmark driver in this year’s title fight.
With momentum firmly on his side and Mercedes continuing to show race-winning speed, Antonelli will be looking to strengthen his championship lead by adding another standout result at one of Formula One’s most iconic circuits.
4 – George Russell (Mercedes)
Russell has been one of the standout performers of the 2026 season, climbing to second in the Drivers’ Championship thanks to a string of consistent results.
The Brit has already claimed two race victories this year and continues to extract the maximum from his Mercedes at every opportunity.
With his confidence at a season high and the championship battle intensifying, Russell will be hoping to convert his strong form into another podium or even another victory.
5 – Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing)
Despite his struggles this season, Spa-Francorchamps is one of Verstappen’s strongest circuits.
The high-speed nature of the track suits Verstappen’s strengths, and the Dutchman has enjoyed multiple victories in Belgium.
Verstappen, having won as recently as 2023, may be able to grasp yet another win in Belgium, should his car behave.
