Lewis Hamilton shockingly eliminated in SQ1 at Spa Sprint Qualifying after unexpected spin. In a highly unusual turn of events during the Sprint Qualifying at Spa-Francorchamps.

In a highly unusual turn of events during the Sprint Qualifying at Spa-Francorchamps, Lewis Hamilton was unfortunately eliminated in SQ1 after spinning in the final sector due to a possible rear axle failure. This marks the first time since the Sprint format’s introduction that a Ferrari driver has failed to advance past the opening qualifying segment.

Lewis Hamilton’s weekend at the Belgian Grand Prix took a surprising and disappointing turn when the seven-time World Champion was knocked out in the first part of the Sprint Qualifying session (SQ1). After initially appearing on course to comfortably progress into SQ2, the Briton spun unexpectedly in the final sector of the track, bringing out yellow flags and potentially compromising the laps of several drivers behind him.

The spin occurred as Lewis Hamilton approached the last chicane, with immediate team radio communications revealing his frustration and confusion. According to Sky Sports F1 commentator Martin Brundle, replays showed Lewis Hamilton’s rear axle giving way under braking—a highly unusual mechanical failure that even caught the British driver by surprise.

This incident not only halted Hamilton’s progression but also marked an unwanted milestone for Ferrari. Since Formula 1 introduced the Sprint Qualifying format, no Ferrari driver had been eliminated so early in the shortened qualifying session. Alongside Hamilton, several other notable drivers failed to advance past SQ1, including Alex Albon of Williams, Nico Hulkenberg driving for Sauber, Franco Colapinto in the Alpine, and Kimi Antonelli representing Mercedes.

The unexpected exit will force Ferrari and Lewis Hamilton to reconsider their strategies for the race, as starting position plays a critical role at the demanding and technical Spa-Francorchamps circuit. The Briton’s elimination also raises questions about the reliability of Ferrari’s latest SF-25 Evo, which had already been under scrutiny after earlier reports of instability during practice sessions.

As the season continues, this rare qualifying setback serves as a reminder that even the most experienced and successful drivers can face sudden challenges in the fast-paced world of Formula 1. Fans and analysts alike will be eager to see how Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari respond in the coming races to regain lost ground.