Hamilton chases Schumacher’s Belgian GP mark as Ferrari gains momentum

BRUSSELS: Lewis Hamilton heads back to Spa-Francorchamps this weekend aiming to draw level with Michael Schumacher’s record of six Belgian Grand Prix victories, as Ferrari arrive with improved form after recent wins.

The seven-time world champion is returning to one of his most successful venues for the 20th year in a row. He goes into the race after finishing third at the British Grand Prix two weeks ago, behind Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc and Mercedes driver George Russell.

Hamilton is seeking an eighth bid at the Belgian race, with Ferrari encouraged by a run in which both of their drivers have taken victories in the last three races. The team’s recent improvement has been linked to stronger pace and better straight-line speed, factors that could prove important at Spa.

Mercedes still lead title fight

Mercedes teenager Kimi Antonelli leads the championship on 179 points after nine races. He is 25 points ahead of Russell and 32 clear of Hamilton. However, the 19-year-old has failed to score in two of his last three races, while a lead that once stood at 66 points has been cut by half.

Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff said reliability had hurt the team’s campaign.

"“Reliability issues have cost us points,” admitted Mercedes team chief Toto Wolff. “In a championship as competitive as this, it's something we cannot afford. There's no value in having pace if we don’t get the results.”"

Antonelli endured a difficult outing at Spa last year, qualifying 19th, starting from the pit lane and finishing 16th in what was described as a tearful race during his rookie season. The report drew a parallel with his troubled 2025 Monaco Grand Prix, where he was lapped twice and came home 18th, before responding this year by winning there and diving into the harbour in celebration of a fifth successive victory.

If Mercedes regain their power and straight-line edge and avoid further reliability trouble, Antonelli and Russell could set the pace. But Hamilton, backed by experience and Ferrari’s resurgence, is also expected to be in contention.

Verstappen and McLaren also in focus

Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion, is also among the leading challengers. The Dutch driver is aiming for a fourth Belgian Grand Prix win. Belgium is described as a second home race for Verstappen because his mother is Belgian and he was born there, with strong support expected again from his orange-clad fans.

He arrives, however, after a frustrating Silverstone weekend in which he complained about a failed rear wing for the second time. Looking ahead to Spa, Verstappen said the circuit could present challenges.

"“It could be tricky with the limitations on the straight, but historically, we have done well here,” said a hopeful Verstappen. “So, let’s see and hope for the best.”"

Hamilton might already have held the Belgian wins record on his own but for his misfortune in 2008, when he crossed the line first in heavy rain before losing the victory due to a controversial post-race 25-second penalty.

Leclerc, who won in Belgium in 2019, will also be part of the fight if Ferrari maintain their current level. McLaren, meanwhile, have ground to make up after a disappointing home race in Britain. Oscar Piastri won at Spa last year ahead of teammate and defending champion Lando Norris, whose mother is also Belgian, with Leclerc finishing third.

Spa’s long straights and sweeping corners are expected to put energy management under pressure again, while the circuit remains known for quickly changing weather that can shape the outcome of races.