The Belgian Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious Formula 1 races in the world, held on the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit. This circuit is renowned for its challenging turns and fast straight sections. In 2023, Max Verstappen once again claimed victory in Belgium. The world champion managed to take the lead from Sergio Pérez within 18 rounds, starting from the sixth position. He won with a lead of more than 20 seconds.
Spa-Francorchamps: A Jewel in the Heart of the Belgian Ardennes
In the heart of the Belgian Ardennes lies the unparalleled jewel of motorsport, the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. The Belgian Grand Prix typically guarantees a spectacle, not least because of the circuit’s characteristics and a number of legendary turns such as Blanchimont, Eau Rouge-Raidillon, La Source, and Les Combes.
Key Facts about the Belgian Grand Prix:
- Construction: 1921
- First F1 Race: 1950
- Location: Francorchamps, Belgium
- Length: 7.004 km
- Number of Turns: 19
- Most Victories: Michael Schumacher (6)
- Lap Record: Valtteri Bottas (1.46,286 in 2018)
Recent Winners of the Belgian Grand Prix:
- 2023: Max Verstappen
- 2022: Max Verstappen
- 2021: Max Verstappen
- 2020: Lewis Hamilton
- 2019: Charles Leclerc
The Belgian Grand Prix: A Must-See for Every Formula 1 Fan
In recent years, the forests of the Ardennes have been populated mainly by orange-clad Max Verstappen supporters. However, Spa-Francorchamps has been a staple on the Formula 1 calendar since the sport’s inception in 1950. Many great champions have won here, and the greatest of them all, Michael Schumacher, even made his debut here. The question is, how much longer will this continue? The circuit organization has been struggling with financial problems for decades, and in the current F1 era, where money is king, it’s possible that the Belgian Grand Prix and the beautiful asphalt ribbon in the hills near Stavelot could be lost.
In 2022, it seemed that the end was near for Spa-Francorchamps, but at the last minute, the contract was extended for another year. Therefore, we were able to enjoy a fantastic race on the Belgian circuit in 2023. Max Verstappen started in sixth place, due to a grid penalty for a new gearbox. After nine laps, Verstappen was already in second place. By the seventeenth lap, the field leader, Sergio Perez, had the current world champion behind him. A brief rain shower added some excitement between second and third place, but the Mexican managed to keep Leclerc behind him. Max Verstappen eventually finished with a substantial lead over his teammate, creating a gap of a whopping 22 seconds. The race is also confirmed to be on the F1 calendar for 2024.
The Spa-Francorchamps Circuit: A Beautiful Yet Dangerous Track
The Spa-Francorchamps circuit is often praised for its picturesque location and iconic turns such as Eau Rouge-Raidillon, Pouhon, and Blanchimont. However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The unpredictable weather, for instance, always leaves spectators and drivers guessing whether it will stay dry. But the most significant concern is the danger. Since the circuit’s opening in 1925, 49 drivers and four marshalls have tragically lost their lives on the Spa-Francorchamps track. The most recent casualty was the Dutch racing talent Dilano van ‘t Hoff, who died in a horrific accident in 2023. His death deeply affected the racing world, prompting columnist Jeroen Bleekemolen to propose the restoration of the chicane at Eau Rouge.
The 2023 Belgian Grand Prix marked a change in tradition, being held before the summer break for the first time in many years, serving as the finale of the first half of the season. The race followed the sprint race format during the last weekend of July. In 2024, the Belgian Grand Prix will once again be the final race before the summer break. Max Verstappen will undoubtedly give his all to secure his fourth victory on his favorite circuit.
When Does the 2024 Belgian Grand Prix Start?
Friday, July 26
13:30 – 14:30: First free practice
17:00 – 18:00: Second free practice
Saturday, July 27
12:30 – 13:30: Third free practice
16:00 – 17:00: Qualification
Sunday, July 28
15:00 – 17:00: Race
