Drama for Mercedes in Belgium as both drivers are eliminated

It was a Friday to forget for Mercedes at the Belgian Grand Prix, as both drivers were eliminated early from Sprint Qualifying at Spa-Francorchamps. Kimi Antonelli finished in a frustrating 20th place, while George Russell could only manage 13th, failing to advance to the final segment of qualifying. A weekend that began with cautious optimism has quickly turned into another chapter of struggle for the Silver Arrows.

Antonelli, competing in his first Formula 1 weekend at Spa, never found the rhythm in his W16. The young Italian complained of "absolutely no grip" throughout SQ1 and was visibly fighting the car through nearly every corner. Despite new upgrades—most notably a revised floor aimed at improving downforce and balance—Antonelli's session was marked by instability and a lack of traction, ultimately leaving him at the bottom of the timesheets.

George Russell fared slightly better, progressing into SQ2, but the outcome was just as disappointing. He was knocked out in 13th, far from where Mercedes hoped to be. According to team sources, Russell may have sustained minor floor damage after running wide over the kerbs, but even without that issue, the car lacked the performance to challenge for the top ten.

This result is a stark reminder that Mercedes still hasn't fully addressed its fundamental weaknesses. On a circuit where aerodynamic efficiency and driver confidence are crucial, the W16 looked unpredictable and off the pace.

With variable weather conditions expected over the weekend, Mercedes may still have a chance to recover—but it’s clear that both drivers will have a mountain to climb. For now, their Sprint prospects look grim, and the pressure is once again mounting in Brackley.