(Motorsports news) Red Bull’s Max Verstappen cut short Lewis Hamilton’s lead to 5 points after being declared the winner of the Belgian Grand Prix which was red-flagged after two laps behind the safety car because of torrential rain and poor conditions. As enough laps were completed, half points were awarded to the top 10 finishers, sealing the result through qualification which meant that Verstappen received 12.5 points, George Russell received 9, finishing in his first podium place position and Hamilton got 7.5 points after finishing third.

It was the first Formula 1 race since the Malaysian Grand Prix in 2009 to award half points and the shortest one in history which, despite its duration, also involved some drama. Red Bull’s Sergio Perez crashed on his way to the grid which meant that Nicholas Latifi from Williams was awarded a point as well as Carlos Sainz who finished 10th and got 0.5 points.

With the three hour ‘race clock’ ticking, stewards were under pressure to restart which was halted due to undriveable conditions but the weather kept getting worse. Eventually, Formula 1 race director Michael Masi red-flagged the race again and it was clear that the race would not be restarted. Next week, Formula 1 action will return to the Netherlands with the Dutch Grand Prix for the first time since 1985. Verstappen will be hoping to further reduce the deficit from Hamilton when he races in front of the home fans who will undoubtedly cheer him on.

Also read: Sergio Perez signs a new contract with Red Bull for the 2022 Formula 1 season