Twitter user The Pocisk posted that they had contacted Spa 16 weeks ago and received a reply on December 20, pasting a copy of the email, “We were disappointed for all fans that the race could not go to the full distance, but the safety of the drivers, marshals and spectators was, and must always be, the priority,” the email reads. “The weather conditions did not improve to complete more laps.
“Spa Grand Prix, promoter of the event, have worked to define different options and to express our gratitude to the Sunday ticket holders who attended the race for your dedication and commitment.”
The small print at the bottom of the email reads: “This offer is made on a commercial basis does not imply any recognition of any liability of any kind. No other form of compensation will be granted.”
When Motor Sport contacted the race promoter Spa Grand Prix for comment, it was told the relevant staff members were “busy in a meeting”.
In the immediate aftermath of this year’s race, Lewis Hamilton called for full compensation for those attending the Belgian event.
“I think just really disappointed for the fans,” he said after the event. “They stood out there for absolute hours in the rain, no covering in the grandstands – I think maybe on the pit grandstand there is – but cold and wet and particularly the kids. More importantly, they had to spend so much money with travelling, accommodation and then they didn’t get a race.
“I think they probably should get their money back.”
It comes less than two weeks after F1 has been criticised for its handling of the end of the 2021 Abu Dhabi GP, the acrimonious last-lap shootout meaning the 2021 crown went to Max Verstappen after Hamilton had dominated the race and looked set for the title.