Spa Secured: Belgian Grand Prix Continues at Iconic Circuit Until 2025

The iconic Spa Francorchamps circuit, home to the Belgian Grand Prix, has secured its place in the F1 calendar until 2025, following a one-year contract extension. This announcement puts an end to the uncertainty surrounding the future of the Belgian GP, reaffirming its crucial role in Formula 1.

Key Takeaways:

• Extended Tenure at Spa: After considerable speculation about its future, the Spa Francorchamps circuit will remain a fixture in Formula 1 until 2025, courtesy of a one-year contract extension. This decision is pivotal as F1 continues to expand its global footprint beyond Europe.
• Circuit Enhancements and Popularity: Recent upgrades to Spa, including the addition of two new grandstands that increased seating capacity by 10,000, have been well-received. The 2023 Belgian Grand Prix attracted 380,000 attendees, a significant increase from the previous year.
• Economic Boon for Wallonia: Willy Borsus, Vice-President and Minister for the Economy of Wallonia, highlighted the considerable economic benefits of the Grand Prix. With an estimated positive financial impact of €41.8 million for the region, the event is not only a sporting highlight but also a major economic driver.

The future of the Belgian Grand Prix at the Spa Francorchamps circuit was recently confirmed, securing its position on the F1 calendar until 2025. This decision comes after much speculation about the future of the event as Formula 1 expands its reach globally. The iconic Spa circuit, renowned for its challenging layout and rich history, has been a staple in the F1 season since the very beginning, making this extension a significant moment for the sport.

Under the current Concorde Agreement, which limits the number of F1 races to 24 per season, Spa was under considerable pressure to maintain its spot. However, the circuit’s recent improvements, including the addition of new grandstands increasing the seating capacity significantly, have reinforced its status as a fan and driver favorite. These upgrades were evident in the impressive attendance numbers for the 2023 Belgian Grand Prix, which saw an increase of 20,000 people from the previous year.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of F1, expressed his delight at the extension, noting Spa’s deep-rooted connection with Formula 1 and the recent strides in enhancing fan experience and infrastructure. He also acknowledged the ongoing work between stakeholders to ensure safe and exciting racing.

The contract extension is not just a win for F1 enthusiasts but also for the local economy. Willy Borsus emphasized the substantial economic impact of the Grand Prix on Wallonia and Belgium. Citing a study from 2021, Borsus noted the event’s generation of a net positive financial impact of €41.8 million for the region, after accounting for public funding. This economic boost, coupled with the decreasing need for public funding, underscores the Grand Prix’s role as both a celebrated motorsport event and a key driver of economic growth in Wallonia.

Looking ahead, the Belgian Grand Prix is set to continue as a pre-summer break event in the 2024 season, maintaining its prestigious spot in the F1 calendar and further cementing its legacy in the world of motorsports.