Formula 1 paused for a deeply emotional moment on Thursday at Spa-Francorchamps, as the entire paddock came together to honor the memories of Anthoine Hubert and Dilano van ‘t Hoff ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend.
Following their media commitments, Ferrari drivers Charles Leclerc and Lewis Hamilton joined fellow drivers, team members and members of the Hubert family for a touching tribute on the starting grid. The gathering highlighted the close-knit nature of the Formula 1 community and its commitment to remembering two talented young drivers whose lives ended far too soon.
The tribute carried particular significance at Spa-Francorchamps. It was at the iconic Belgian circuit that Anthoine Hubert tragically lost his life during the FIA Formula 2 feature race on August 31, 2019. Four years later, in 2023, the motorsport world suffered another heartbreaking loss when Dutch driver Dilano van ‘t Hoff was involved in a fatal accident during a Formula Regional European Championship race at the same venue.
Drivers from Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3 gathered wearing special “Racing for Anthoine” shirts, standing shoulder to shoulder in a moment of silence before the race weekend officially began. The annual tribute has become one of the most meaningful traditions at Spa, reflecting the lasting impact Anthoine Hubert had on so many within the paddock and ensuring that neither he nor Dilano van ‘t Hoff are ever forgotten.
For Charles Leclerc, the ceremony was especially personal. The Ferrari driver shared a close friendship with Hubert long before reaching Formula 1, progressing together through karting and the junior categories. Leclerc has often spoken about the emotional challenge of returning to Spa every year, describing the circuit as a place that represents both the happiest memory of his career—his maiden Formula 1 victory in 2019—and one of its greatest tragedies.
Lewis Hamilton also took part in the tribute, standing alongside every other Formula 1 driver in a display of solidarity and respect. Moments like these underline that, despite the fierce competition on track, the motorsport community remains united when it comes to honoring those who have left a lasting mark on the sport.
As preparations continue for another Belgian Grand Prix weekend, the emotional ceremony once again highlighted that some memories extend far beyond racing results. The legacy of Anthoine Hubert and Dilano van ‘t Hoff continues to inspire the paddock, reminding everyone of the importance of safety, friendship and the enduring bonds that define the world of motorsport.
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