Oscar Piastri heads to Belgian GP after 2025 win-watch live schedule
Oscar Piastri returns to Spa‑Francorchamps after his 2025 Belgian Grand Prix victory, with the 2026 race weekend set to kick off on July 17. The Australian driver will line up alongside Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc as the season reaches its tenth official event.
When is the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix weekend?
The schedule runs from Friday, July 17, through Sunday, July 19. Practice #1 starts at 7:30 a.m. ET on Friday, followed by Practice #2 at 11:00 a.m. Saturday sees Practice #3 at 6:30 a.m., then Qualifying at 10:00 a.m. The race itself begins at 9:00 a.m. ET on Sunday. All sessions will stream on Apple TV.
Why does Piastri’s 2025 win matter?
His triumph in 2025 marked the first Australian victory at Spa since 1999, boosting his profile and giving McLaren a morale lift. The win also forced rivals Red Bull and Ferrari to rethink strategy for the high‑speed circuit. Fans will watch to see if Piastri can replicate that performance on a track that rewards tyre management and precise braking.
Who are Piastri’s main rivals this weekend?
Lando Norris, his McLaren teammate, will be a direct challenger, while Charles Leclerc of Ferrari remains a constant threat in the midfield. Both drivers posted strong qualifying laps in 2025, and their pace at Spa often translates into podium finishes. Expect tight battles in the final sector, where Piastri’s smooth line could make the difference.
What should viewers look for during the race?
Key moments include the Eau Rouge‑Raidillon complex, where tyre degradation spikes. Piastri’s 2025 race strategy hinged on a late‑pit stop that preserved his lead; replicating that approach could be decisive. Also watch the safety‑car deployments, as they frequently shuffle the order in the closing laps.
How can fans watch the action?
Apple TV holds exclusive rights to the live feed for all three practice sessions, qualifying and the race. Subscriptions can be purchased directly through the platform, and a free trial may be available for new users. The feed includes on‑board cameras, team radio, and real‑time telemetry for a fully immersive experience.
What’s next after Belgium?
The calendar moves to the next European stop, the Hungarian Grand Prix, on July 26. Piastri will aim to carry any momentum from Spa into the fast, sweeping layout of the Hungaroring. A strong finish in Belgium could set the tone for the remainder of the season’s second half.
**Bottom line:** Oscar Piastri’s 2025 victory adds extra intrigue to the 2026 Belgian Grand Prix weekend. With practice, qualifying and race times now set, fans have every reason to tune in and watch the Australian star chase another historic result.