Belgian Grand Prix

The Belgian Grand Prix is a storied event in the world of Formula One, with a rich history that dates back to 1925. The race has been held at the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, which is situated in the picturesque Ardennes forest in the eastern part of the country. The circuit is known for its challenging layout, with a mix of long straights and fast corners that test the skills of even the most accomplished drivers.

In its early days, the Spa-Francorchamps circuit was renowned for its danger and unpredictability. The track was built using public roads between the towns of Francorchamps, Malmedy, and Stavelot, and it featured white-knuckle straights, tight city corners, and several elevation changes. Unfortunately, this also meant that the track was prone to accidents, and in the early years of the Grand Prix, there were several serious injuries and fatalities.

One of the most notable accidents occurred in 1966, when Jackie Stewart was seriously injured in a crash at Burnenville. Stewart became a committed advocate for safety improvements in Formula One, and his efforts helped to bring about many changes that have made the sport safer for drivers and spectators alike.

Despite its dangerous reputation, the Spa-Francorchamps circuit remains a favorite among drivers and fans. The track is the longest on the current Formula One calendar, measuring 7.004 kilometers in length, and it has the highest elevation of any circuit. However, it has the smallest crowd capacity, with a limit of just 70,000 fans.

One of the most famous sections of the Spa-Francorchamps circuit is the Eau Rouge corner, which is a challenging sequence of left-hand, uphill turns that lead into a blind right-hand corner at the top of the hill. Only the truly great drivers have been able to master this section of the track, and it has been the site of many memorable moments in Formula One history.

Over the years, several drivers have distinguished themselves at the Belgian Grand Prix. Michael Schumacher, for example, won the World Championship at Spa-Francorchamps in 2004, and he holds the record for the most wins at the track with six victories. Ayrton Senna also had a strong record at the Belgian Grand Prix, with five wins to his name, including four consecutive victories with Mclaren-Honda.