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McLaren’s Backing the Wrong Driver — And F1’s Still Scared of Rain

Author
Eleanor Baillieu & Patricia Valeri-Mellior
Published
Tue 29 Jul 2025
Episode Link
https://paddock-43.simplecast.com

It’s the Belgian Grand Prix, and what a weird, wet, and very delayed weekend it was!

We kick off with the big-picture take: is Spa still fit for modern Formula 1? Between constant rain delays and growing safety concerns, we debate whether one of the sport’s most iconic tracks still deserves its place on the calendar, or if tradition is holding F1 back.

In other news, it was the first Belgian GP without Christian Horner on the pit wall, with Laurent Mekies stepping in as team principal. The optics were noticeable, but did it make a difference?

Ferrari’s upgrades were disappointing to say the least, and Elle and Pat get into a fiery debate about Ferrari's current standing and their future. Are they just a mid-field team? Meanwhile, McLaren continues its charge: Oscar Piastri smashed the sprint shootout lap record, took pole, and extended his drivers’ championship lead while also making a serious case as the team’s true No.1.

We also touch on: The most stacked F1 jet ride to Spa (Alonso, Bearman, Piastri, Bortoleto and Bottas), Lance Stroll being Lance Stroll and a quick look ahead to Hungary GP this coming weekend. Plus a very exciting Green flag

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