F1 'working through options' for Belgian GP spectators

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Formula 1 said on Wednesday that it is working with the Belgian Grand Prix promoter on "various options" to compensate ticket holders of the washed-out race.

Appalling weather conditions wreaked havoc on last Sunday's event at Spa, the shortest in the history of F1 but the longest to complete.

Fans in the grandstands and spectators around the Ardennes circuit witnessed two delayed formation laps before enduring a three-hour wait for an official start behind the safety car that lasted just three laps before the race was red flagged, with Max Verstappen declared the winner.

Half points awarded to the top classified ten drivers and a podium only added insult to injury in the view of the public, with many calling for full refund of their ticket, a request supported by seven-time world Lewis Hamilton who labeled the afternoon "a farce", with fans "robbed of a race".

On Monday, Spa Grand Prix boss Vanessa Maes, the promoter of the event stated that she would hold talks with Formula One Management and seek a compensation package for the fans.

Read also: Todt 'very sorry' for Spa fans - review of regs in order

On Wednesday, Formula 1 confirmed that discussions were underway with Spa Grand Prix.

"Following the impact of the weather on the Belgium Grand Prix on Sunday 29th August, Formula 1 and the promoter are working through various options for ticket holders, to express our recognition and thanks to them for their dedication and commitment," said F1.

"We will provide further details as soon as possible as we want to thank the fans for their continued support and passion for Formula 1."

Hamilton's criticism of how events were handled at Spa did not dampen the Mercedes driver's enthusiasm for the legendary venue.

The Briton suggested that a free race held at Spa would go a long towards making for last weekend's debacle.

"I’d absolutely come back," Hamilton said. "I love it here so if there is a way we could find a window where it wasn’t raining and we give the fans a free race, that would be great."

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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.