F1 drivers passionately express that despite changes, no other circuit can match the unique allure of Spa.
Spa is a legendary circuit on the F1 calendar… but is it still intimidating for drivers? The famous Eau Rouge turn, for example, isn’t really one anymore: it’s taken flat out with this generation of cars.
The Ardennes track remains very, very popular with the drivers, starting with Nico Hülkenberg at Haas F1.
“Really, in the rain, it adds thrill, excitement, and difficulty for us, the drivers. A bit less so in the dry, especially at Eau Rouge, where we have so much aerodynamic downforce and high speed that it’s no longer really a challenge. But since I’ve been in F1, in the dry, it has always been more or less easy. But it’s still special. There is so much heritage and history in this circuit. And the landscape alone will always make and keep it special.”
Pierre Gasly is also one of the biggest fans of the Belgian layout, especially its second sector.
“Yes, personally, it has always been one of my favorite circuits. Obviously, the Eau Rouge turn has changed. But even in the lower categories, we have Formula 4, Formula 3, Formula 2, it has always been a full throttle turn. So obviously, it’s easier in Formula 1. But I still think the track itself is simply incredible. The flow, the pace there is unique. It’s the longest circuit on the calendar, which gives it a special character. So yes, each circuit has its own challenges. But I love it as it is, yes.”
Alexander Albon shares the same sentiment, adoring the circuit but acknowledging that Eau Rouge is no longer a corner.
“To be honest about Eau Rouge, after the first lap, it’s not really a corner anymore. So, it’s the rest of the track that counts. The curbs and everything associated with them are very well done. The undulations, the banking, everything is much more to our liking, with a bit more character.”
Oscar Piastri of McLaren F1 believes we may no longer see new Spas added to the calendar—a circuit with such character, such personality…
“Eau Rouge is always very, very special, no matter what car you’re in. And for me, it’s still my favorite circuit of the year. And then there’s the rest of the layout, it’s a lot of fun, in the junior categories, it has always been very good for racing and should be in F1 too. It’s a very fluid layout.”
“And, let’s be honest, there will never again be a track like Spa, in the middle of a forest, which definitely adds to the atmosphere, the undulations, and other things like that. We will never have circuits like those again. That’s why this circuit is so special.”
Finally, Fernando Alonso, while not listing Spa as his favorite circuit, places it in his “top 5.” With his vast experience, the Aston Martin F1 driver confirms, “I haven’t always taken Eau Rouge flat out…”
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Spa Circuit’s Charm Undimmed Despite Changes Spa Circuit’s Charm Undimmed Despite Changes
