F1 Belgian GP start delayed as rain hits Spa
The start procedure for F1's Belgian Grand Prix was suspended due to poor visibility on the formation lap
Max Verstappen, Red Bull Racing
Photo by: Mark Thompson - Getty Images
Formula 1 race control has red-flagged the Belgian Grand Prix before the start due to poor weather conditions around Spa-Francorchamps.
As the anticipated rain showers hit the Ardennes hills on Sunday, drivers started the formation lap for the 44-lap race on Pirelli's intermediate tyres.
But due to poor visibility and heavy spray behind the safety car, FIA race control brought out the red flag and suspended the start procedure.
"Most drivers have reported poor visibility during the formation lap, hence the red flag," an FIA spokesperson explained.
Polesitter Lando Norris, who informed his McLaren team even he was struggling to see the safety car as the first driver in the queue, led the cars back into to the pitlane. There, they are awaiting a 10-minute warning for the procedure to be restarted when conditions have improved.
George Russell, Mercedes
Photo by: Ryan Pierse / Getty Images
While more downpours are expected to hit Spa during the race, rain had stopped at the time of the planned 15:00 race start, with race control hoping that a dry period will offer a window to get the grand prix underway.
Earlier on Sunday the F3 race was cancelled due to the torrential conditions, while the F2 feature race was run successfully in the wet.
After a break in conditions and a lengthy effort to remove standing water, race control announced the race would resume at 16:20 local time.
Photos from Belgian GP - Race
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