Belgian Grand Prix

The Belgian Grand Prix is a historic race with the first event taking place in 1926. Since that time the race has provided continually popular with drivers and spectators alike with the unpredictable weather one of the features of the event. The circuit remains one of the most challenging of the season regardless of weather conditions and the Spa-Francorchamps track continues to generate top quality racing.

2011 Season

The Belgian Grand Prix is a very technically demanding circuit that demands compete and utter concentration from the drivers and teams. Only a small number of drivers have ever been able to master the circuit and a tough race is expected once again.

Sebastian Vettel is expected to put in a strong performance but a strong challenge is expected from McLaren with Jenson Button keen to put in a strong performance at the track.

Overview

The Spa-Francorchamps circuit is very well -liked by the divers and despite numerous alterations the track retains it’s magic. The track is the longest of the season with a total lap length of 7.004 km. The Grand Prix takes place over 44 laps with a total race distance of 308.052 km. The circuit includes 19 corners and the lap record is held by Kimi Raikkonen with a time of 1:45:108, which he set in 2004.

History

The Belgian Grand Prix holds a long and distinguished history. The event began in 1926 with the race originally held along the narrow public roads in Spa. The lap was a massive 14.9km long and was notoriously dangerous.

By the time the ‘old’ circuit staged it’s last Formula One race the lap was 14km in length and there were complaints that the track could not cope safely with the cars being used. When Formula One returned in 1983 the lap distance had been reduced to around 7km but the changeable weather conditions and picturesque background ensures that the race retains favouritism amongst the drivers.

Key Moments

2007

Formula One returns to Belgian after a year break and Kimi Raikkonen wins his third Belgian Grand Prix in a row.

2001

Michael Schumacher wins to claim his 52 Grand Prix victory and surpass Alain Prost’s long-standing record.

1998

Terrible weather conditions with heavy rain lead to a massive accident, which involves thirteen cars from the twenty four car field. Michael Schumacher confronts David Coulthard after the two are involved in a serious accident and Coulthard accepts responsibility.

1992

Michael Schumacher wins his first Formula One race at Spa.