Spa set for on and off F1 future

Formula 1 will continue racing at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit until 2031, albeit on a rotational basis.

The Belgian Grand Prix has signed a new four-year deal, but they will be spread across six seasons.

F1 will go racing at the 7km circuit nestled in the Ardennes Forest in the 2026, 2027, 2029 and 2031 seasons.

But it will not appear in either 2028 or 2030 due to the new rotation system, which F1 is using to gain more flexibility with interest from new venues at an all-time high and fans and drivers alike will miss the sight of cars blasting up Eau Rouge.

However, it ensures Formula 1’s rich history with Spa carries on with the Belgian Grand Prix’s current contract expiring after the 2024 race.

This year 380,000 fans watched Lewis Hamilton win after Mercedes teammate George Russell was disqualified, while two new grandstands that will increase the capacity by 10,000 have been promised.

Since retuning to a redeveloped Spa in 1985 after stints at Zolder and Nivelles, the Belgian Grand Prix has only been absent from Formula 1 in 2003 and 2006 due to Belgium’s tobacco advertising laws and circuit refurbishments respectively.

It was the scene of Michael Schumacher’s first victory in a wet 1992 race and he has a record six wins, while Hamilton matched Ayrton Senna with five this year.

All up Spa has hosted 57 Grands Prix, the fourth most of all time.

“The Belgian Grand Prix was one of the races that made up our maiden Championship in 1950, so as we kick off our 75th anniversary year it is fitting that we can share the news of this important extension,” said Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1.

“Spa-Francorchamps is rightly lauded by drivers and fans alike as one of the finest racetracks in the world and it has played host to some incredible moments over its many seasons in Formula 1. 

“In recent years it has undergone significant work to improve the facility and overall fan experience, and I would like to pay tribute to the promoter and the Government of Wallonia for their dedication and passionate support for Formula 1 in Belgium.”

“I am delighted that the Belgian Grand Prix – a must-attend event for Wallonia – has been confirmed on the F1 calendar for several years,” Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Walloon Government and Minister of the Economy commented.

“The circuit provides the Region with high-quality sports infrastructure capable of hosting exceptional events, and thanks to the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, Spa-Francorchamps, and through it, Wallonia, is placed at the centre of global attention.

“In addition to this international showcase, the event generates significant economic benefits for Wallonia, as well as for Belgium. The extension of this relationship over several years will also allow the circuit teams to plan for the future, which is hugely positive.”

The 2025 Belgian Grand Prix will be on July 25-27.

Photo by Michael Potts / LAT Images

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