MAY 9-11

Circuit Guide to Spa-Francorchamps

spa-francochamps-racetrack

Circuit Guide to Spa-Francorchamps

Spa Francorchamps is home to some of the most iconic racing in motorsport. Winding through the dramatic Ardennes Forests, the track offers a set of high-speed, sweeping corners that put any professional driver to the test. 

Are you gearing up to see some of the World Endurance Championship races? Discover more about watching motorsport history at Spa Francorchamps with Hertz. Let’s Go!

 

In this guide:

  • Spa-Francorchamps facts and stats
  • Where is Spa-Francorchamps?
  • Spa-Francorchamps – What you need to know
  • Why visit Spa-Francorchamps at the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC)?

 

 

Spa-Francorchamps Facts and Stats

  • First FIA WEC race year – 1953
  • Total length in lap distance – 4.3 mi (7 km)
  • Number of turns - 19
  • Overall duration – 6 hours
  • Most successful driver in FIA WEC – Jacky Ickx
  • Fastest WEC lap – Stephane Sarrazin
  • Top speed – 198.59 (319.6kph)

Where is Spa-Francorchamps?

Nestled between the rolling hills and fir-tree forests of the Ardennes region, Spa-Francorchamps offers breathtaking views of the gorgeous greenery and picturesque landscape of eastern Belgium – not to mention the adrenalin-fueled action taking place down on the tarmac.

The nearest city to the circuit is Liege, about a 40-minute drive if you’re renting a car. It should also take you approximate 2 hours if you’re driving on the E-40 from Brussels, Belgium’s capital. So, you might just want to rent a comfortable and spacious car if you’re up for a weekend or holiday drive!

Read more about visiting the circuit at Spa-Francorchamps for race weekend.

Spa-Francorchamps – What You Need To Know

At just over 7km (4.3 mi) in length, Spa-Francorchamps is a supreme test of racing drivers’ skill and nerve. It features a demanding series of fast, sweeping corners, slower technical turns and several long straights where cars can reach speeds of up to 210 mph (330km/h).

The crown jewel of the Spa-Francorchamps circuit is the famous Eau Rouge, a grueling left-right-left sequence that sweeps uphill flat-out into the Raidillon bend. Notorious for its trickiness and catching many a driver unaware, it’s created some of the best moments in motorsport history - including Aryton Senna’s impressive back-to-back wins at the Belgium Grand Prix from 1988-91.

There’s even a grand statue of Senna in his cockpit contorting his body in spectacular fashion as he maneuvers through Eau Rouge. 

Another challenging part of the track is the downward left-hander at Pouhon. Drivers here will put their machines to the test, edging to speeds of 280 kmph (173 mph) during qualifying sessions as they look to masterfully gain time on opponents while keeping all four tires on the road.

Last but certainly not least, we have the high-speed stretch from Stavelot corner to Bus Stop chicane. This section offers a true test of raw power for vehicles, running about 0.91 mi (1.5 km), proving over the years to be a great place for drivers to overtake.

Don’t miss out on any big moments when visiting the Spa-Francorchamps

Check out our review of the best viewpoints at Spa.

Why Visit Spa-Francorchamps at the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC)?

If you’re looking for a memorable racing experience, the FIA World Endurance Championship at Spa is sure to provide a cocktail of scenic views, fast cars, and electric atmosphere. Witness the pulsating on-track battles the WEC has become renowned for whilst enjoying the storied Belgian surroundings of Spa-Francorchamps.

Get to know more about our drivers at Hertz Team JOTA.

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