Wait, isn’t Russell supposed to be on the top step?

And you’ll be right, but George Russell was unfortunately disqualified after the race when the stewards discovered that his car was 1.5 kilograms under the regulated minimum weight at Parc Ferme.

Huge shame, as Russell drove an absolutely brilliant race, being the only driver brave enough to proceed with a one-stop strategy.

Mercedes acknowledged the error, leading to Russell's disqualification and elevating Hamilton to the top step of the podium. "It was a genuine mistake," the team stated, marking a bittersweet moment for the squad.

On track, Charles Leclerc initially seized the lead from pole but was quickly overtaken by Hamilton within two laps. From there, Hamilton demonstrated his prowess at Spa-Francorchamps, a track where he has previously celebrated four wins.

Russell’s bold one-stop strategy saw him pit on Lap 10 of the 44-lap race, a move that demanded delicate tyre management as the laps wound down. Hamilton, closing in during the final laps, couldn't pass Russell on track but was handed the win post-race.

Behind the Mercedes drama, Oscar Piastri secured what would now be second place, with Charles Leclerc moving up to third. Max Verstappen, starting from P11, climbed to fourth after the reshuffle.

Lando Norris battled his way to fifth for McLaren, just ahead of Carlos Sainz.

Sergio Perez, despite late-race struggles, finished in seventh, with Fernando Alonso taking eighth for Aston Martin.

Esteban Ocon and Daniel Ricciardo completed the top ten.

Photo Credits: Formula One