Why did F1 sign a one-year contract extension with Spa-Francorchamps despite safety concerns?

The Iconic high-speed circuit of Spa-Francorchamps is here to stay in Formula One till 2025.

Why did F1 sign a one-year contract extension with Spa-Francorchamps despite safety concerns?

Fernando Alonso at Spa (Via IMAGO)

The high-speed track at Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium will stay on the racing calendar for two more years, as confirmed by the FIA. The Belgian GP holds a rich history, as there have been 56 Grand Prix hosted here since its first race in 1950. The track is infamous for its danger-prone straight and the low visibility during wet races. The death of F4 driver Dilano Van’t Hoff this season has made the racing community demand changes to the circuit to alleviate safety concerns.

The Spa is also the longest circuit in the calendar, stretching at 7.004 km. The track has undergone significant developments in its infrastructure. They added two new grandstands for fans, increasing the seating capacity by 10,000. Belgian GP, hosted this year, was attended by 380,000 people across the weekend. Now, F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali has explained the reasons for the extension.

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Domenicali said that the promoters of the Belgian GP have taken ‘big strides’ toward improving the circuit. As reported by racefans.net, he said, “They have taken big strides in the last few years to improve the fan experience and infrastructure.” Domenicali also commented on the work that is ongoing with the stakeholders. He said, “Work is ongoing between all the stakeholders with a clear focus on delivering safe and exciting racing.”

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Domenicali also said he is ‘delighted’ because of the contract extension with the Spa circuit. He said, “I am delighted to extend our relationship with them until 2025.” He also called the Spa circuit with the sport of Formula 1.

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The dark history of the Belgian GP Circuit

There have been a total of 49 fatalities all around the spa circuit. It is also termed one of the most ‘dangerous’ circuits because of its high-speed turns. The course has also claimed the lives of 23 drivers; hence, this circuit was boycotted by F1 in 1969.

Dilano Van’t Hoff
Delano Van’t Hoff

In 2019, Anthoine Hubert, racing in F2 for MP Motorsport, was involved in a horrific crash at the Raidillon curve due to a puncture in his tire. Hubert was immediately moved to the medical center, where he was declared dead after 90 minutes of treatment. Incidents like these are why racers around the grid are hesitant at the Spa Circuit.

Recently, Dilano Van’t Hoff was racing in the Formula Regional European Championship (FRECA). This crash occurred at the Kemmel straight, just after the Radilion curve. Reigning champion Max Verstappen called this incident and said that it was ‘sad and unnecessary.

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