Belgian GP start delayed over heavy rain, poor visibility

The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps has faced a significant delay due to heavy rain causing extremely poor visibility during the formation lap behind the safety car. Drivers, including pole-sitter Lando Norris, reported that conditions were too dangerous to race, prompting officials to issue a red flag and send cars back to the pits. The rain, which intensified just before the scheduled start, is expected to continue for some time, with no official restart time announced yet. Championship leader Oscar Piastri, starting second behind Norris, will have to wait alongside other drivers as the weather and track conditions improve. This delay echoes the infamous 2021 Belgian GP, which was cut to just two laps under the safety car due to persistent rain, resulting in fan frustration and rule changes to award points only after a minimum number of racing laps. Organizers are monitoring weather conditions closely to determine when it will be safe to proceed with the 44-lap race.