Why Belgian GP sprint presents F1 teams with FP1 challenge

As with previous 2023 events it means that car set-up is frozen after FP1 as the field heads into qualifying, and any changes thereafter will trigger a pitlane start for the sprint and the grand prix itself.

The teams already have some experience of the new format, which was used in Azerbaijan and Austria.

However, it will be particularly challenging at Spa, where cars are especially sensitive to downforce and drag levels, as well as ride…