F1: Verstappen tops practice 2 at Spa

With light rain threatening the entire session and finally hitting late, defending World Champion Max Verstappen turned a lap of 1m45.507s to lead Practice 2 for the Belgium GP at Spa in his #1 Red Bull Honda.

Charles Leclerc was 2nd quick in his #16 Ferrari, 0.862s behind, a significant margin.

Both will be starting from the back Sunday due to power unit changes.

Lando Norris was third quick for McLaren, 1.082s behind.

Watching the cars go through Eau Rouge at full song on a slightly wet track on slick tires is a sight to behold as the cars wiggle at 220mph through the uphill left-right-left. There is no question these are the best drivers in the world.

Lewis Hamilton had a really big moment and nearly wadded up his Mercedes. Mick Schumacher skated off through the gravel at Turn 7.

Once again, Lance Stroll was in the top-5 running the upgraded Aston Martin, placing 4th quick.

Carlos Sainz Jr. in the #55 Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton in the #44 Mercedes were 5th and 6th.

So, Red Bull seem to have the pace advantage today, with Leclerc in particular not fully happy in his Ferrari. Mercedes looked to be carrying plenty of fuel so seem to be keeping their cards close to their chest… And as for the rest, Alpine rarely look strong on a Friday, but Norris could be worth watching.

One more practice session to go tomorrow, before qualifying gets under way. How much of a part will those with grid penalties play in that one? Might we get a surprise pole-sitter? And will the weather play its part in proceedings?

Practice 2 Results