FIA under fire from international media after 'ridiculous spectacle' in Belgium

Max Verstappen was also clear with his verdict after the chequered flag. The Dutchman would have preferred if the race had started earlier and found the decision of the race control to be 'too cautious'. On the other hand, some are of this opinion that it's better the FIA prioritised safety.

The delay lasted for about an hour and half. The race was started behind the safety car, followed by a rolling start after a few laps have been completed. Oscar Piastri managed to overtake Lando Norris early on and ultimately won the race.

Particularly the Spanish newspaper Marca, had strong criticism on the long delay after the race. “In Formula 1, the 20 best (arguably) drivers in the world race. The 10 best teams. The best engineers and strategists. Plus the biggest luxury on the best stages. F1 has it all and deserves it all.”

“But no racing takes place in the rain. As if it was on fire, as if it was more scary than it should be. When it rains, the top tier turns into a ridiculous spectacle. That of course happened in Spa as well,” the newspaper wrote.

The Daily Mail also suggested that there was more delay in Belgium than eventually necessary. “An hour's further hiatus ensued as rain intensified. When it stopped, and the wet started to evaporate from the track, the race started behind a safety car that stayed out for four laps – longer than many observers thought necessary. Indeed, intermediate tyres were only required for seven laps.”

In US series, such as Nascar, rain delays are the norm on the ovals. Still, the American ESPN also saw the decision by the stewards led to the competition missing out on a classic.