Belgian Grand Prix: The penalties are known
After a downpour of penalties occurring during the practice sessions, the sanctions for the drivers involved have been announced.
They were many to have been penalized during the free trials. They are now aware of their sanctions for non-compliance with the regulations.
With several parts changed on their cars, some drivers were penalized. Some were penalized for an engine change, others for a gearbox change, or even for both at the same time.
It is therefore no less than 6 drivers who have been penalized. Thus, they will all have to start at the back of the grid during the Grand Prix on Sunday. The two drivers in the title race, Leclerc and Verstappen, are involved in it. Along with them, Ocon, Schumacher, Norris, and Bottas will also be penalized.
| Drivers | Pièces changées | Pénalités | |
| 1 | Leclerc | Moteur et boite de vitesse | Fond de grille |
| 2 | Verstappen | Boite de vitesse et moteur | Fond de grille |
| 3 | Bottas | Boite de vitesse et moteur | Fond de grille |
| 4 | Schumacher | Boite de vitesse et moteur | Fond de grille |
| 5 | Ocon | Moteur | Fond de grille |
| 6 | Norris | Moteur | Fond de grille |
The starting grid order will still be determined based on Saturday’s qualifications. The driver who sets the best time will be placed 15th on the starting grid. The other racers will also follow in accordance with their times.
However, the penalties regarding the drivers can evolve. It will still be possible to change parts on Saturday morning before the qualifications. If other drivers do not abide by the regulations, they could once again be penalized and face new penalties.
A good move to play for the pursuers.
With both leaders, Verstappen and Leclerc, at the back of the grid, it’s a huge opportunity for their pursuers to go for pole position and potentially the final victory. Provided that the two “furious” drivers don’t decide to make their way up the entire field.
This situation is beneficial for the Mercedes drivers, Hamilton and Russell, who will have positions to gain. Mercedes could snatch the 2nd place right under Ferrari’s nose, if things go well for them.
Sainz and Perez, meanwhile, will try to make up for the absence of the two leaders in the championship. The positions will be highly contested, and the Grand Prix promises to be interesting.
