After what feels like an eternity away from the sport, Formula 1 returns at the iconic Belgian Grand Prix this weekend for Round 13 of the 2025 season. While this break wasn’t officially the mid-season holiday, it gave drivers time to relax and recuperate before tackling the punishing Spa-Francorchamps circuit, a track Pierre has expressed fondness for in the past.
Looking Back at Silverstone
Although Silverstone was a chaotic, rain-soaked race, BWT Alpine F1 emerged with a strong result, thanks to Pierre’s sixth-place finish after a challenging afternoon. Unfortunately, on the other side of the garage, Colapinto was forced to retire with a DNF. Nevertheless, valuable lessons were taken from the weekend, which the team can apply going forward into the second half of the season.
Spa-Francorchamps Preview
Spa-Francorchamps, known as a true driver’s circuit, is the ultimate test of skill. Featuring long, flowing corners, the challenging Bus Stop chicane, and the legendary Eau Rouge corner—where bravery on the throttle is essential—the 7.004 km track is the longest of the season. With an elevation change of 102.2 metres across the lap, Spa is infamous for its unpredictable weather. Although the forecast currently looks dry, a Sunday shower could still shake up the race.
The team’s return to Spa is also a time for reflection. BWT Alpine will pay tribute to Anthoine Hubert, who tragically lost his life during an FIA F2 race here in 2019. Anthoine was a lifelong friend of Pierre and a Renault Junior Academy driver. The team will once again host the annual ‘Run for Anthoine’ event in his memory.
Circuit Facts:
First Grand Prix: 1950
Track Length: 7.004 km
Lap Record: 1:44.701 (Sergio Perez, 2024)
Most Wins: Michael Schumacher (6), Ayrton Senna and Lewis Hamilton (5 each)
Pole to Turn 1 Braking Point: 165 metres
Safety Car Probability: 75% (based on the last nine Belgian GPs)
Pit Stop Time Loss: 18.9 seconds
Pierre Eyes Further Success
Both drivers are eager to secure positive results, especially Gasly, who aims to continue his momentum from Silverstone:
“As a team, we were really pleased with sixth place during what was a very complicated race, featuring some enjoyable battles on track. During the two-week gap, I completed essential simulator work for both this season’s car and next year’s, before heading on a mini-break in Mallorca to recharge my batteries ahead of the upcoming double-header.”
However, the weekend at Spa brings mixed emotions for Gasly and the team:
“Racing in Spa always brings contrasting feelings for me, as I’ve openly shared over the years. While I love racing here and find its iconic corners hugely rewarding, this circuit will always hold sad memories for me and many others.”
Colapinto Targets a Strong Weekend
Franco is eager for redemption following his Silverstone disappointment:
“On my side, it was disappointing not to start the race on Sunday, especially given the opportunities available for drivers further back.”
He’s used the recent break to learn, collaborate with the team, and return refreshed:
“We fully debriefed the weekend and spent valuable time at the factory preparing for these final two races before summer. It’s rare to have two weeks between races, so having the extra time to recuperate was beneficial.”
What to Watch at Spa
Positive Momentum: Gasly aims to continue the momentum gained from Silverstone. Can he qualify strongly again?
Colapinto’s Comeback: Franco seeks to bounce back after a disappointing last race.
Possible Rain: Even a small chance of rain could create significant drama on this high-speed, technical track.
Finding the Right Setup Early: At a track that demands a perfect balance between high-speed corners and low-speed chicanes, nailing the setup early will be crucial.
Trak Racer x Alpine F1 Team
Trak Racer proudly supports the BWT Alpine F1 team's efforts throughout the Formula 1 season. The TRX cockpit combines Trak Racer’s sim-racing experience with the expertise of Alpine team engineers. As the only Formula 1 team-approved simulator cockpit, the TRX brings fans closer to the action than ever before.
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