Spa Speed Trap: Who is the slowest of them all?

©Mercedes

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That's right, instead of asking who the fastest driver in a straight line is at Spa, we've formulated the question contrarily, because the answer is simply more compelling.

As a power circuit, Spa-Francorchamps was always going to be a challenge for Ferrari. But the magnitude of the Scuderia's deficit to its rivals this weekend - and the shortfall of all Ferrari-powered cars - really drives home the extent of the disaster that inhabits the House of Maranello.

Leclerc warns Ferrari fans not to expect any 'miracles'

The slowest five cars in Saturday's qualifying were all powered by Ferrari, while Sebastian Vettel's top speed up the Kemmel straight was slightly better.

Ferrari's engine saga involving its confidential agreement with FIA has been well chronicled, but it's interesting to hark back to last year's Belgian Grand Prix, the first race after the 2019 summer break and the first 'sortie' of the Scuderia's improved power unit.

One year ago, Vettel was fastest through the speed trap with a top speed of 317.7km/h. This year, the German's velocity was measured at just 308 km/h.

Discounting year-over-year aero differences, the deficit remains significant, and it begs one question: just how badly were Ferrari breaking the engine rules in the second half of 2019?

We'd guess: very badly.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.