FIA hand driver unexpected summon ahead of Belgian Grand Prix weekend

The Haas driver, who was scheduled to kick off the media session alongside Max Verstappen and Alex Albon, arrived late for the mandatory press conference, prompting the stewards to investigate the matter.

Ocon, along with a Haas team representative, has been summoned to appear before the stewards at 12:00 local time on Friday, July 17, to provide an explanation regarding the incident. The alleged breach relates to Article B10.1.1.a of the FIA Formula 1 Regulations, which covers late attendance at the Thursday Press Conference.

The Frenchman would eventually join Verstappen and Albon for the media duties, but only after the scheduled 14:00 start time had passed.

With energy management expected to be a major talking point throughout the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, the FIA have confirmed the introduction of five Straight Mode (SM) zones at Spa-Francorchamps.

The system, which allows drivers to activate both the front and rear wings simultaneously to reduce drag on the straights, will play a crucial role at a circuit known for its long flat-out sections.

Similar to the role previously played by DRS, the first Straight Mode zone will be located on the start-finish straight. The second will come on the downhill section from La Source towards Eau Rouge, while the third activation zone will be placed on the famous Kemmel Straight heading towards Les Combes.

The fourth SM zone will begin on the exit of Stavelot before being deactivated ahead of the high-speed left-hander at Blanchimont. The final zone will be positioned towards the Bus Stop chicane.

With Spa-Francorchamps featuring lengthy straights and fewer heavy braking areas, energy recovery is expected to present a significant challenge for teams and drivers. Max Verstappen and Fernando Alonso have already highlighted the difficulties surrounding power deployment ahead of the weekend.