Lewis Hamilton Learns Belgian GP Qualifying Fate After FP3 Crash

Lewis Hamilton will take part in qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix following his heavy crash in final practice at Spa-Francorchamps. The SF-26 will be ready in time for the next session.

The seven-time world champion brought out the double yellow flags at the end of FP3 after crashing at Turn 13 – in an almost carbon-copy accident from Pierre Gasly’s crash on Friday. Hamilton’s accident raised fears that his participation in qualifying could be in doubt.

However, GPblog can confirm that Hamilton will be able to take part in qualifying, despite suffering damage to his floor, rear suspension and wing. The Scuderia will be able to repair Hamilton’s car on time, meaning he can take the fight to Mercedes for pole position this afternoon.

Hamilton’s accident interrupted the final hour of practice and left the Ferrari garage facing a race against the clock. Despite the impact, the damage was not extensive enough to prevent him from taking to the track later. The Briton will now turn his attention to qualifying, where he will look to quickly put his crash behind him and secure a competitive grid position for Sunday’s Belgian Grand Prix.

Verstappen and Sainz summoned to stewards

Meanwhile, Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz have been summoned to the stewards after a near-collision behind the double yellow flags brought out by Hamilton’s crash.

As Verstappen negotiated the caution zone, he was left incensed by the Williams of Sainz closing rapidly on the back of his Red Bull. The four-time world champion immediately vented his frustration over team radio, saying: “What the f***? My god! It’s, like double yellows and this car, it like, almost crashes in the back of me. Unbelievable.”

Both drivers have been summoned to see the stewards, with Sainz the driver at risk of getting a penalty for allegedly failing to slow under yellow flags.

Follow qualifying for the Belgian Grand Prix here!

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