Rain that hit the Spa-Francorchamps circuit in the run-up to the Sprint played havoc with the teams’ prep work – with a number of formation laps run behind the Safety Car to clear standing water before green flag racing began.
Once the Safety Car pulled in, half the field opted to file immediately into the pits to switch their extreme wet tyres for intermediates – with the other half following suit a lap later after a rolling start.
LIVE COVERAGE: Follow all the action from the F1 Sprint in Belgium
Crucially, though, from P2 on the grid, Oscar Piastri was able to jump pole-sitter Max Verstappen for the lead, having been among the gaggle of drivers to stop at the first opportunity as the championship leader stayed out.
Relive the action in the video above.
Next Up
Related Articles
Verstappen 'right not to be happy' after crash – Mekies
All the F1 teams and drivers at 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed
When McLaren should see first results of new upgrade approach
How Mekies' first year in charge is reshaping Red Bull
The best photos from the Goodwood Festival of Speed
UnlockedPALMER: How Leclerc hit back with victory at Silverstone