Spa boss 'thinking about possible gesture' to compensate Belgian GP fans

Spa-Francorchamps circuit president Melchior Wathelet is refusing to rule out some form of compensation "gesture" to the tens of thousands of F1 fans who witnessed a non-event of a Belgian Grand Prix.

Seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton openly called for a refund for the spectators who stood for hours in the pouring rain and cold but only saw a two-lap 'race' behind the safety car before the event was called off almost four hours after the scheduled start time.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali initially said 'no' to any recompense, although he is now understood to be in talks with Wathelet following the criticism that has followed.

Speaking to Belgium's Sporza news agency, Wathelet said: “It’s a painful moment.

“There was a bit of driving, but there was no spectacle. There were a few laps behind the safety car, but everyone is sad. It’s not the best way to end the weekend.”

Regarding the prospect of compensation, he added: “We are going to think about a possible gesture for the spectators. We are going to see what is possible and are open to everything.

“First it has to be a bit more concrete. We are not going to create hope with the fans and then not fulfil the promise. It’s too early to say if anything is possible.”

Wathelet, though, is refusing to add his voice to the criticism. “I understand the decision,” said Wathelet. “The race directors tried to race on the track, but it didn’t work.

“Everyone has their share of frustrations. We now have to find a global solution for it. But we are not going to throw anything on the table that is not feasible.”

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