Perez crashes out ahead of the Belgian Grand Prix

Sergio Perez is out of the Belgian Grand Prix after crashing at Les Combes on the way to the grid.

In testing the grip on his reconnaissance laps at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit due to rain falling all day, Perez ran wide at the end of the Kemmel Straight, over a painted kerb and into a tyre barrier.

Red Bull had handed Perez a contract extension on Friday to keep the Mexican with the team for 2022.

Perez was slated to start the race seventh but the suspension damage sustained ensured he would watch on from the sidelines.

Team-mate Max Verstappen starts from pole with Williams driver George Russell alongside the Dutchman on the front-row.

Speaking to Sky Sports F1, team principal Christian Horner said: "Obviously, very disappointing not to be able to take the start.

"It just shows how tricky conditions are out there. He reported he couldn't really see anything and unfortunately the car has just got away from him.

"So a great shame for Checo and the team not to be starting the race.

"For Max, it doesn't really change anything for him and his approach, but obviously pretty nasty conditions out there."

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