Norris criticized for 'error extravaganza' as Piastri extends.

      Oscar Piastri is currently leading the world championship by 16 points after overtaking pole-sitter and McLaren teammate Lando Norris to win the rain-delayed Belgian Grand Prix. While Max Verstappen and Red Bull have fallen further behind in the title race, attention is shifting towards what appears to be an intense McLaren battle for the 2025 championship.

      “It’s too early to discuss the championship situation,” said team CEO Zak Brown. “Max Verstappen should never be counted out. However, having such a substantial lead over the competition is fantastic. It allows our two drivers to race against each other, which is thrilling for everyone. The more racing, the better.”

      McLaren is resisting external pressure to enforce team orders, allowing the championship contenders to race freely. At Spa, it was Piastri who took the initiative first. RTBF’s Gaetan Vigneron characterized their battle as a “fascinating psychological duel.” While Norris is often regarded as the quicker driver over a single lap, Piastri’s composure and consistency, particularly in challenging conditions, proved decisive once again.

      “Oscar just did a good job. Nothing more to say,” Norris commented. “He committed a bit more through Eau Rouge, took advantage of the slipstream, and gained the run. No complaints from me. He did better at the start, and that was it.”

      Ralf Schumacher, speaking on Sky Deutschland, was less lenient: “Lando still had a chance at the end since he was on hard tires while Piastri's were fading. However, he made three mistakes, losing a second each time, which amounted to the three seconds he needed.”

      “A Hamilton or Verstappen wouldn’t have made those mistakes,” Schumacher added. “Oscar was simply superior today.”

      Norris acknowledged the outcome: “Oscar deserved it today. Another one-two. A well-deserved finish for them and for Oscar as well.”

      Meanwhile, Verstappen finished fourth behind Charles Leclerc, despite Red Bull introducing a slight upgrade. More components are set to arrive in Hungary, but Helmut Marko was candid about the situation.

      “The conclusion is that we couldn’t keep pace,” he stated. “We were never in a position to pass the Ferrari. McLaren is in a league of its own, and they deserve credit.” Marko noted that while the RB21's setup window has improved, it still doesn’t match McLaren’s breadth. “We were also surprised by Ferrari’s speed.”

      Red Bull had opted for a fully wet setup for Verstappen, anticipating heavier rain, but the FIA postponed the start until the track dried significantly. “The setup we had for the sprint race would have been better under these conditions,” Marko mentioned. “We need to keep working. New parts will be brought to Hungary, and we’ll see what occurs.”

      He also addressed Verstappen’s concerns regarding engine clipping: “The engine mapping is managed by the Japanese,” he referenced, referring to Honda.