Formula 1 drivers are preparing for significant energy management difficulties at the upcoming Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps. The track's long straights and limited braking zones are expected to limit battery deployment, similar to the challenges faced at Silverstone.
Fernando Alonso of Aston Martin warned that drivers may run out of battery power for large portions of the lap at Spa. He noted that full deployment from La Source to Les Combes would leave no energy for the rest of the circuit, resulting in power levels below those of Formula 2 cars during non-deployment periods.
Other drivers echoed these concerns. Oliver Bearman and Max Verstappen both highlighted Spa as particularly demanding for energy management, with Verstappen calling it another painful weekend due to the same issues experienced at Silverstone.
The series has already begun addressing these power unit limitations. Changes planned for this year and beyond aim to reduce reliance on electrical deployment, shifting the balance toward internal combustion output.