The 2026 Belgian grand prix is set to deliver a thrilling mix of unpredictable weather and high-octane racing at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit. As teams and drivers prepare for the weekend’s challenges, the weather forecast promises to add an extra layer of excitement to the event. Known for its rapidly changing climate, Spa-Francorchamps has a history of affecting races with heavy rainfall, as seen in last year’s event where Oscar Piastri clinched victory in a wet-dry race delayed by excessive rain.
After recent heatwaves across Europe, temperatures are expected to drop as the paddock arrives in Belgium. The weekend’s weather is anticipated to be dynamic, with potential wet conditions adding to the drama on the track. Let’s dive into the detailed forecast and the key moments from Friday’s practice sessions.
Weather Forecast for the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix Weekend
The weather at Spa-Francorchamps is expected to be as unpredictable as the racing itself. Friday, July 17, is forecast to be the most active day, with a 40% chance of moderate rain showers and embedded thunderstorms. Temperatures will range from 14°C in the morning to a high of 25°C during the day, with winds averaging 12 km/h and gusts possibly reaching 35 km/h. Track temperatures are expected to rise into the mid-40s, given ample sunshine between showers.
Saturday, July 18, will see a mix of clouds and sun, with temperatures ranging from 10°C in the morning to a high of 21°C. There is a low risk for morning fog, but conditions are expected to remain favorable for racing teams. The chance of rain is reduced to 20%, with winds averaging 14 km/h and gusts up to 35 km/h.
Sunday, July 19, the race day, is forecast to be the coolest of the weekend, with highs of 19°C and a low of 8°C. There is a minimal 10% chance of rain, and winds will average 13 km/h, occasionally gusting up to 40 km/h. The track temperature may only reach the low 30s, but could trend slightly warmer with greater afternoon sunshine.
Kimi Antonelli Shines in FP2 Amidst Track Drama
Kimi Antonelli made a strong statement during Friday afternoon’s second practice session for the Belgian Grand Prix, setting the fastest lap of a session interrupted by two red flags. The championship leader headed McLaren’s Lando Norris and Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, showcasing Mercedes’ dominance at Spa-Francorchamps.
Antonelli’s benchmark lap of 1:45.944 came during a stop-start afternoon that saw the action halted first to clear gravel from the circuit before Pierre Gasly’s heavy late accident triggered a second red flag. Despite rain showers sweeping across Spa-Francorchamps between the day’s two practice sessions, the weather had cleared by the time FP2 began, allowing drivers to focus on qualifying simulations and longer race runs.
The session was marked by intense competition, with Antonelli controlling much of the one-hour session. Lewis Hamilton finished fourth, while Oscar Piastri recovered to sixth after missing the opening 20 minutes with a hydraulic problem. The session also saw notable performances from Franco Colapinto and Isack Hadjar, who continued their impressive Friday by taking fifth place despite carrying a significant grid penalty into the weekend.
As the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix unfolds, the combination of unpredictable weather and thrilling track action promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. With Kimi Antonelli setting the pace and the weather adding an extra layer of challenge, this weekend’s race at Spa-Francorchamps is shaping up to be one for the history books.
