Verstappen’s Fresh F1 Fear After Spa Shame

Max Verstappen has voiced strong frustration over the FIA’s decision to delay the start of the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix due to heavy rain, claiming it signals the death of thrilling wet-weather battles in Formula 1.

The Red Bull driver, who started from pole but finished fifth after a grid penalty, argued that the sport’s growing caution is stripping away the excitement that defined past rain-soaked classics. “We’re never going to see those epic wet races again,” Verstappen said post-race at Spa-Francorchamps. “It’s a shame because that’s what fans love – the unpredictability and skill it demands.”

The race, eventually won by McLaren’s Oscar Piastri ahead of teammate Lando Norris and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, kicked off 30 minutes late as officials waited for conditions to improve. Visibility was poor, and standing water posed risks on the demanding Ardennes circuit, but Verstappen felt the hold-up was excessive. “We have the tyres for this, and drivers know how to handle it,” he added. “Pushing everything back just makes it feel too safe, too controlled.”

George Russell, who crossed the line fourth for Mercedes but faced a post-race investigation for an underweight car, supported the FIA’s call. “Safety comes first, especially here after what we’ve seen in the past,” the Briton noted, referencing historical incidents at Spa without naming them.

Verstappen’s comments highlight a broader debate in F1 this season, where wet sessions have sparked similar delays, including at the Japanese Grand Prix earlier in 2025. With Red Bull chasing a fourth straight constructors’ title amid tight competition from McLaren and Ferrari, the Dutchman urged a rethink. “If we keep doing this, wet races lose their edge. It’s not what the sport needs.”

FIA race director Niels Wittich defended the delay, emphasizing driver and marshal safety in low-visibility scenarios. As F1 heads into its summer break before the Dutch Grand Prix, Verstappen’s critique could fuel discussions on balancing thrill with precaution in an era of advanced safety standards.