Qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix is underway at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, with Andrea Kimi Antonelli demonstrating strong pace. The Mercedes driver has been a consistent frontrunner throughout the weekend’s sessions. Antonelli topped the final practice session earlier today, finishing ahead of Lando Norris and Max Verstappen.
Max Verstappen, driving for Red Bull, enters the decisive Q3 session with the fifth-fastest time from Q2. He has consistently placed within the top three across all practice sessions at the iconic Belgian circuit.
Antonelli, who currently leads the Drivers’ Championship by 25 points over teammate George Russell, has secured five pole positions this season. Mercedes drivers have claimed all nine poles so far in 2026.
The 7.004-kilometer Spa-Francorchamps circuit, known for its elevation changes and unpredictable Ardennes weather, presents a unique challenge. It is the longest track on the current Formula 1 calendar.
Red Bull opted to remove its rotating rear wing for this event following recent incidents involving Verstappen. This change may result in reduced straight-line speed for the RB22.
Lewis Hamilton experienced a significant setback during FP3, crashing his Ferrari and causing substantial damage. His team faced a race against time to prepare the car for qualifying.
George Russell secured an eighth-place slot for Q3, over half a second slower than his Mercedes teammate Antonelli in Q2. This performance could impact his confidence.
The Q2 session saw Liam Lawson, Pierre Gasly, Franco Colapinto, Nico Hulkenberg, Carlos Sainz, and Oliver Bearman eliminated from contention.
Isack Hadjar, Verstappen’s Red Bull teammate, advanced to Q3 from ninth position. His presence is crucial for potential slipstream assistance to Verstappen in the final qualifying segment.
Historically, pole position at Spa-Francorchamps has not guaranteed victory. No polesitter has won the last four Belgian Grands Prix, with an average winning starting position of 6.25 between 2022 and 2025.
The 2026 season introduces Overtake Mode, replacing DRS, with five activation zones at Spa to enhance acceleration and top speed.
As Q3 commences, the battle for pole position remains open, with Antonelli and Verstappen among the key contenders on this demanding circuit.
