Belgian Grand Prix: Leclerc Claims Pole, Ricciardo Hints at Red Bull Exit

Ferrari's Charles Leclerc Secures Pole Position

Charles Leclerc of Scuderia Ferrari has secured pole position for Sunday's Belgian Grand Prix at the iconic Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. The Monegasque driver outpaced Red Bull Racing's Sergio Perez by a margin of 0.027 seconds in a thrilling qualifying session.

Ricciardo Drops Retirement Hint

Australian driver Daniel Ricciardo has hinted that the Belgian Grand Prix could be his final race with Red Bull Racing. Speaking to the media after the Hungarian Grand Prix, Ricciardo admitted that "it's a possibility" that he will leave the team at the end of the season.

Uncertain Future for Ricciardo

Ricciardo, who returned to Red Bull Racing at the start of the 2023 season, has struggled to match the pace of his teammate Max Verstappen. The Australian driver has finished on the podium only twice this year, compared to Verstappen's nine podiums. Ricciardo's comments have fuelled speculation that he could be replaced by another driver for the 2024 season.

Verstappen Extends Winning Streak

Despite a five-place grid penalty for impeding Carlos Sainz in qualifying, Max Verstappen claimed an eighth consecutive victory for Red Bull Racing at the Belgian Grand Prix. The Dutchman drove a masterful race to overtake Charles Leclerc on Lap 12 and seal another dominant triumph.

Australian Representation in Formula One

Daniel Ricciardo's potential departure from Red Bull Racing would leave Australia without a representative in Formula One. Ricciardo is the country's only current Formula One driver, and his exit would be a significant loss for Australian motorsport fans.