The battle for the drivers' championship tightens ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. Max Verstappen's future dominates discussion: Zak Brown insists McLaren talks "didn't go anywhere" and he's "very happy" with Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri, but Verstappen's management is exploring options. A performance clause in his Red Bull contract could allow a 2025 exit, though no decision is imminent. Any move would test McLaren's fairness-first philosophy, yet his guaranteed performance remains attractive.

Lewis Hamilton, 41, and Fernando Alonso, 44, continue winning and outperforming younger teammates. The limiting factor for aging drivers is mental, not physical — both retain total commitment and exceptional ability, a rare combination.

Spa-Francorchamps remains a driver favourite for its flowing, high-speed corners like Eau Rouge and Pouhon, plus inherent jeopardy. Max Verstappen calls wet qualifying "extreme"; Toto Wolff says Spa reminds us F1 is "still a gladiators' sport".

Amid rising Iran-US tensions, the FIA is monitoring security for the Qatar and Abu Dhabi Grands Prix, though no cancellations are announced.