The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is a firm favourite with everyone in the paddock and has hosted a round of the European Le Mans Series since 2016. In 2022 the premier Belgian circuit will host Round 5, with the 4 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps being held on Sunday 25 September.
In November 2021 a number of significant projects, aimed at making improvements the infrastructure and the safety of the track, were started.
The areas that are being improved include -
·La Source (Turn 1) and the 24H grandstand area
The run-off at La Source is being enlarged to strengthen track safety and a gravel trap will be placed there. The 24hr grandstand will be replaced by a new, more modern, grandstand.
·Raidillon and Eau Rouge (Turns 2 to 4)
The top of Raidillon (Turn 4) will see the tarmac run-off enlarged on the right side of the track. The left part of the Raidillon (Turn 3) will make way for a larger tarmac run-off. As for the foot of the Raidillon, Eau Rouge (Turn 2), the rails will be moved to allow for enlargement of the run-off. A covered grandstand will then be erected at the top of Raidillon for the end of April, comprising 4,600 places and VIP boxes.
·Les Combes and Malmedy (Turns 6 & 7)
At Les Combes and at Malmedy, the run-off will be enlarged, the rails moved and the tarmac replaced by a gravel trap. New service roads are also being put in place.
·Bruxelles (Turn 8)
The Bruxelles corner will see part of the tarmac run-off removed in order to enlarge the gravel trap.
·Blanchimont (Turns 16 & 17)
The run-off platform of Turn 17 will be enlarged, a gravel trap is being created and the rail moved. Also, the tarmac run-off at Turn 16 will be transformed into a gravel trap. A service road will also be created.
The work is moving on at a great pace and there will be further updates from the circuit as the building work progresses. The work is due to be completed by the start of the season.By the time the ELMS arrives in the circuit will have hosted several other major events and we look forward to seeing the new look Spa-Francorchamps in September.
CLICK HERE to see more on the Spa-Francorchamps website
