Lewis Hamilton’s Belgian GP weekend got off to the worst possible start as the seven-time World Champion suffered a shock elimination in SQ1 for the Sprint event. It marked the first time since the introduction of the Sprint format that a Ferrari driver had failed to progress past the opening session — an unwanted record Hamilton certainly did not expect to own. The incident came as Hamilton approached the final chicane during his crucial lap, where he lost control of the rear of his Ferrari under braking and spun, ending any hopes of advancing.
Lewis Hamilton ‘Massively Frustrated’ After Shock SQ1 Exit at Belgian GP originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Lewis Hamilton’s Belgian GP weekend got off to the worst possible start as the seven-time World Champion suffered a shock elimination in SQ1 for the Sprint event.
It marked the first time since the introduction of the Sprint format that a Ferrari driver had failed to progress past the opening session — an unwanted record Hamilton certainly did not expect to own.
The incident came as Hamilton approached the final chicane during his crucial lap, where he lost control of the rear of his Ferrari under braking and spun, ending any hopes of advancing.
Replays showed what Sky Sports pundit Martin Brundle called a “highly unusual” moment, with suspicions of a technical issue on the rear axle or gearbox.
Brundle explained: “His rear axle broke up under braking, highly unusual. I don’t think there’s anyone more surprised at that than Lewis Hamilton.” Anthony Davidson, analyzing the SkyPad, agreed it was likely a mechanical issue, adding: “I hear a lot of locking in the rear axle on the car. That clunking is a backlash in the gearbox… I give Lewis the benefit of the doubt for that one.”
Speaking after the session, Hamilton kept his comments brief but emotional: “I spun… There’s not much to say. Tomorrow’s a new day. Obviously I’m massively frustrated… Hopefully tomorrow will be better.”
The elimination means Hamilton will start deep in the field for the Sprint, with a tough challenge ahead to recover points for Ferrari, who have been struggling to consistently match McLaren and Red Bull this season.
#BelgianGP 🇧🇪 | Lewis Hamilton after his SQ1 elimination:
— deni (@fiagirly) July 25, 2025
“I spun (…) There’s not much to say.”
“Tomorrow’s a new day. Obviously I’m massively frustrated… Hopefully tomorrow will be better.” pic.twitter.com/s2wx8R2LB9
With mixed weather forecasted for the remainder of the weekend at Spa, opportunities for a fightback still remain - but Hamilton knows he faces an uphill battle.
For a driver who has spent nearly two decades redefining consistency, Friday’s drama at Spa is a rare misstep. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if Hamilton can bounce back and turn a nightmare Friday into redemption on race day.
Related: Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Spin Shocks F1 Paddock as Martin Brundle Calls It ‘Highly Unusual’
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 25, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
