SPA-FRANCORCHAMPS
The history of the legendary Spa-Francorchamps race track begins at the end of World War I. It was then that Jules de Thier, owner of the Liège-based newspaper La Meuse, came up with the idea of creating a racetrack there. From the junction of three city roads 32, 33 and 440, connecting Spa-Francorchamps, with Malmédy and Stavelot, was created into an ideal race track that still exists today.
Originally the track was over 15 kilometres long. A motorcycle race was held here as early as 1922, and two years later a 24-hour race was inaugurated. However, what invariably attracts the largest crowds of fans is the Formula 1 race that has been held here for years. Over the years, the track has been rebuilt many times. In 1939, a spectacular steep curve was built, which became the showpiece of the Spa circuit. The difference in elevation here is as much as 17%. The place was christened Raidillon, but in the minds of fans it became known as Eau Rouge. After this change Spa-Francorchamps has become the fastest race track in Europe, alongside Monza.
The technical development of the racing cars taking part in the track and, above all, the increase in the speeds they achieved did not go hand in hand with the improvement of safety, which was practically impossible to ensure on a route constructed in this way, which often ran very close to buildings. During the 1960 race, two British drivers were killed: Chris Bristow and Alan Stacey. In 1970, Formula 1 racing at this track ceased until 1983. At that time, the Belgian Grand Prix races were held at the Nivelles and Zolder circuits.
After all the reconstructions aimed at increasing the level of safety, this one of the fastest and most beautiful race tracks in Europe finally reached 7,004 meters in length. It was here, in 1973, on the old track, that French driver Henri Pescarolo set the average lap speed record with a result of 262.461 km/h, which remains unbeaten to this day. The most victories in the Belgian Grand Prix were achieved by the legendary Michael Schumacher, who won here six times. Robert Kubica also raced on the Spa-Francorchamps track, years ago in Formula 1, then with success in the Endurance series in the Renault Sport Trophy, where he achieved third place. After a spectacular return to F1, which followed a long break caused by a terrible accident during a rally stage in Italy, Robert returned to Spa-Francorchamps. In 2021 he will be racing here LMP2 prototype, in the European Le Mans series.
The track racing calendar is extremely tight. Various race series are held here, from the Endurance World Championship, through the 6-hour race, to what excites fans the most, the Belgian Formula 1 Grand Prix. Many smaller races also take place on this track. Interestingly, amateurs can also test their skills here. Several times a year, anyone can register to participate in an open day. Of course, this involves high costs, but you can realize your dream and drive your own car around this legendary track. Tours of the track are also organised several times a year. The entire guided tour takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Spa-Francorchamps track records
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Lap record: Valtteri Bottas 1:46.286 
Stand capacity: 70,000 viewers |
Track length: 7,004 km 
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Most wins: Michael Schumacher 6 
Year of establishment Spa-Francorchamps: 1920 |
address:CIRCUIT DE SPA FRANCORCHAMPS Route du Circuit 55, 4970 Stavelot, Belgia http://spa-francorchamps.be/en/access-map |
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