Lewis Hamilton’s push for a strong start in the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix sprint qualifying ended abruptly when he spun off in SQ1 at Spa-Francorchamps. The Ferrari driver, chasing a quick lap on the demanding Ardennes circuit, lost control at the high-speed Eau Rouge-Raidillon section, sliding into the barriers and triggering a red flag.
Wet conditions from earlier rain made the track treacherous, and Hamilton’s SF-25 appeared to snap away under braking, sending him backwards into the wall. He emerged unscathed but frustrated, radioing his team: “Yeah, that was on me – just pushed too hard there.”
The incident knocked him out of contention early, leaving him at the back for the sprint race. Teammate Charles Leclerc progressed smoothly, highlighting the fine margins in these mixed-weather sessions. Mercedes’ George Russell topped SQ1, setting up an intriguing battle ahead.