Spa-Francorchamps

Nestled in the scenic Belgian Ardennes, the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is one of the most iconic and beloved tracks on the Formula 1 calendar. Known for its challenging terrain, dramatic elevation changes, and unpredictable weather, Spa has earned its place as a favorite among both drivers and fans. It is the longest circuit on the current F1 calendar, offering a thrilling challenge for the world's best drivers.

The circuit, located near the villages of Stavelot and Francorchamps, boasts a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1921. Though originally over 14 kilometers long, the track has been shortened to approximately 7 kilometers today, yet it retains its legendary status.

Since 1925, the Belgian Grand Prix has been a staple on the Formula 1 calendar. Spa-Francorchamps was one of the original circuits featured in the inaugural Formula 1 World Championship in 1950, with Juan Manuel Fangio claiming the first-ever F1 victory here. Although the circuit has undergone several modifications over the years, it has remained a cornerstone of the sport.

Notably, the Belgian Grand Prix has only been absent from the calendar a handful of times since the 1950s. From 1972 to 1983, the race alternated between other Belgian circuits like Nivelles and Zolder, but Spa returned permanently in 1985.

Spa-Francorchamps is a unique track known for its unpredictable weather and iconic corners. The circuit's layout features a thrilling blend of fast straights and technical corners, with a total of 19 corners spread across a length of 7.004 km. One of the most remarkable aspects of Spa is its elevation change of over 100 meters, which makes the track a true test of a driver's skill. First of all, drivers have the tricky hairpin La Source as obstacle to overcome, the exit is crucial as drivers will take the next 25 or so seconds at full throttle, all the way up the hill through Eau Rouge and Radillon corners, which are perhaps the most iconic Formula 1 corners of all time. The next braking zone leads into a technical section through Les Combes, three medium-speed corners that follow each other up at a vast rate of knots. Through the middle sector drivers have to deal with quick corners left-hand like Pouhon and Blanchimont before reaching the slowest part of the track, the Bus Stop Chicane.

Over the years, Spa-Francorchamps has witnessed some unforgettable moments in Formula 1 history. This Belgian giant is the venue that saw the great Michael Schumacher make his F1 debut for Jordan in 1991. 1998 is famous for a huge pile up after the La Source hairpin on Lap 1, Damon Hill surged to his last-ever victory that day and got Jordan a one-two finish. In 2008 the Belgian Grand Prix set the scene for a thrilling chapter in Hamilton’s and Massa’s championship battle. The Brit finished first, but due to a penalty for passing too soon after handing the place back, he would fall back into second place. In 2014 Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg collided during the race, allowing Daniel Ricciardo to claim a surprising victory for Red Bull Racing. One beautiful moment occurred in the 2019 edition of the race in Belgium as Charles Leclerc claimed his first-ever F1 victory at Spa, dedicating the win to his late friend Anthoine Hubert, who tragically lost his life in a Formula 2 crash the day before.

The Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francorchamps is more than just a race—it’s an experience. Known for its dramatic weather, challenging corners, and breathtaking views, Spa provides a unique challenge for every driver. Over the years, Spa has earned its place as one of the most revered and historic tracks in the world. With the world’s best drivers, including Max Verstappen, Lewis Hamilton, and Charles Leclerc, all vying for victory, the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix promises to deliver another memorable weekend of Formula 1 action.

Hamilton shares second place in the all time list of most successful drivers at Spa-Francorchamps, with five total victories. Ayrton Senna also holds five wins around this racetrack, but no one is a match for Michael Schumacher’s six wins at the venue. Who knows whether Hamilton might equal the German’s record this year driving for Ferrari.