Wednesday has brought mixed news for the future of the F1 Belgian GP at Spa-Francorchamps. While the legendary venue remains on the calendar, it will become a rotational race.
Formula 1 will travel to Spa in 2026, 2027, 2029 and 2031. It will not be on the calendar in 2028 and 2030 as more venues with larger sums of money — particularly in the Middle East — agree 10-year deals at a time. Other venues such as Imola and Barcelona look set for the same fate, or potentially dropping off the calendar completely.
2028 will mark the first time in 22 years that the F1 Belgian GP will not be on the calendar. The race was skipped in 2003 and 2006 because of tobacco advertising laws and the fact repairs could not be made to the venue in time respectively.
Significant upgrades to the circuit facilities has saved it from completely dropping off the calendar. A new grandstand at the famous Eau Rouge/Raidillon section has quickly become a fan favourite.
Michael Schumacher (x6), Ayrton Senna and Lewis Hamilton (x5), and Jim Clark and Kimi Räikkönen (x4) are the most successful drivers around the iconic venue.
Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, said:
“The Belgian Grand Prix was one of the races that made up our maiden Championship in 1950, so as we kick off our 75th anniversary year it is fitting that we can share the news of this important extension.
“Spa-Francorchamps is rightly lauded by drivers and fans alike as one of the finest racetracks in the world and it has played host to some incredible moments over its many seasons in Formula 1.
“In recent years it has undergone significant work to improve the facility and overall fan experience, and I would like to pay tribute to the promoter and the Government of Wallonia for their dedication and passionate support for Formula 1 in Belgium.”
Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Walloon Government and Minister of the Economy, commented:
“I am delighted that the Belgian Grand Prix – a must-attend event for Wallonia – has been confirmed on the F1 calendar for several years.
“The circuit provides the Region with high-quality sports infrastructure capable of hosting exceptional events, and thanks to the FIA Formula 1 World Championship, Spa-Francorchamps, and through it, Wallonia, is placed at the centre of global attention.
“In addition to this international showcase, the event generates significant economic benefits for Wallonia, as well as for Belgium. The extension of this relationship over several years will also allow the circuit teams to plan for the future, which is hugely positive.”
Melchior Wathelet, President of Spa Grand Prix, and Vanessa Maes, CEO of Spa Grand Prix, added:
“We are both very proud of this renewal, which reflects the mutual trust built as we have upgraded our infrastructure and delivered record attendance and fantastic fan experience over recent years.
“This contract extension has once again been made possible thanks to the support of the Walloon Government but also the fans of what we believe is the most beautiful circuit in the world. Together we are strengthening our commitment to the development of our wonderful region.”
