Components 1 has introduced a landmark multi-year extension with the Belgian Grand Prix, guaranteeing the legendary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps stays a key fixture on the racing calendar for 4 of the following six years. The renewed settlement will see the celebrated Grand Prix happen within the 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031 seasons, marking a testomony to the circuit’s enduring significance within the sport’s historical past.
This extension follows important current investments in Spa-Francorchamps, which have enhanced its infrastructure and fan expertise. Two new grandstands, rising spectator capability by 10,000, have been added, alongside upgrades to off-track leisure and facilities. The Belgian Grand Prix welcomed a record-breaking 380,000 followers through the 2024 race weekend, culminating in an electrifying victory for Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton—his second win of the season and fifth triumph at Spa.
Spa’s Wealthy Legacy
Established in 1921, Spa-Francorchamps has lengthy been synonymous with motorsport excellence. It was one of many authentic seven circuits featured in Components 1’s inaugural championship in 1950 and has since hosted 57 Grands Prix. Identified for its gorgeous format of lengthy straights and difficult corners, Spa is revered for sections like Eau Rouge, Raidillon, and the Kemmel Straight, which demand ability and bravado from the world’s finest drivers.
At 7.004 kilometres, Spa is the longest circuit on the Components 1 calendar and has been the location of unforgettable moments within the sport’s historical past. Legends comparable to Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, Niki Lauda, and Sebastian Vettel have all triumphed right here. Among the many present grid, Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and Max Verstappen have etched their names into Spa’s storied historical past with memorable victories.
A Report-Breaking Weekend
The Belgian Grand Prix continues to be a magnet for followers, with final 12 months’s occasion drawing a file 380,000 attendees throughout three thrilling days. The 2024 race noticed Lewis Hamilton safe his second and fifth win of the season at Spa, additional solidifying his legacy on the circuit.
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In 2025, the Components 1 Belgian Grand Prix will happen from July 25-27, that includes the return of the extremely anticipated F1 Dash format. This addition guarantees much more action-packed racing, guaranteeing followers are entertained all through the weekend.
Management Views
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Components 1, highlighted the historic significance of the extension, saying:
The Belgian Grand Prix was one of many races that made up our maiden Championship in 1950, in order we kick off our seventy fifth anniversary 12 months, it’s becoming that we are able to share the information of this vital extension. Spa-Francorchamps is rightly lauded by drivers and followers alike as one of many best racetracks on the planet and has performed host to some unimaginable moments. Current upgrades to the power and the fan expertise reveal a transparent dedication to sustaining its iconic standing.
Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Walloon Authorities and Minister of the Financial system, emphasised the broader impression of the race:
The Belgian Grand Prix is a must-attend occasion for Wallonia, providing worldwide recognition and important financial advantages for the area and Belgium as an entire. This long-term settlement ensures stability and permits us to proceed showcasing Wallonia globally.
Melchior Wathelet, President of Spa Grand Prix, and Vanessa Maes, CEO of Spa Grand Prix, expressed their pleasure within the renewal:
This renewal displays the belief constructed by our efforts to boost infrastructure, ship file attendance, and create a improbable fan expertise. It’s a testomony to the Walloon Authorities’s help and our followers’ unwavering ardour. Collectively, we’re dedicated to additional creating this extraordinary venue and area.
Wanting Forward
With its unparalleled historical past, difficult format, and thrilling races, Spa-Francorchamps stays a cornerstone of Components 1. This renewed partnership ensures that the circuit will proceed to captivate followers and drivers for years to come back, solidifying its place within the sport’s future whereas celebrating its illustrious previous.