Hamilton starts from pitlane at Belgian Grand Prix

The three drivers will begin the race from the pitlane following dismal qualifying results.

Hamilton joins Alonso and Antonelli for Belgian Grand Prix pitlane start

Lewis Hamilton, Fernando Alonso, and Kimi Antonelli will begin the Belgian Grand Prix from the pitlane after being eliminated in the first round of qualifying. Hamilton lost his fastest time due to a track limits violation, while Antonelli lacked pace in his Mercedes. Alonso's qualifying performance was disappointing, finishing second to last, with only his teammate Lance Stroll slower. Given the rain on race day, the teams opted for alterations in vehicle setups to better handle wet conditions. This strategic decision has included changes to engine components, allowing them to start fresh even from the back of the grid.

The decision for three notable drivers to take pitlane starts reflects a growing trend in Formula 1 where teams prioritize long-term performance over short-term gains. With challenging conditions on race day, these adjustments may allow Hamilton, Alonso, and Antonelli to maximize their potential, setting the stage for an exciting race. However, facing substantial competition, their ability to recover from the back of the field remains uncertain and underscores the unpredictable nature of motorsport.

Highlights

As the race unfolds, the strategies of these drivers will be closely watched amid unpredictable weather conditions.