Today was supposed to be the date of the Belgian Grand Prix at Spa-Francochamps. The majestic circuit in the Ardennes forest was voted the best in Formula One by fans last year, but was dropped from the 2006 calendar.
The circuit is one of the most demanding in the world. Its fastest sweeps and plunges are shaped by the natural terrain. At over eight miles the original circuit was far longer but the modern, contracted configuration is the closest to the road racing roots of Grands Prix that features in F1 today.
Famously Spa’s ‘microclimate’ provokes unpredictable weather which further adds to the challenge.
Happily, the track should be back on the calendar next year. In the meantime, enjoy a selection of ‘photos from recent Belgian Grands Prix, plus a couple of classic archive pictures.
Related links
- Belgian Grand Prix 2005 review
- Tell us about your experiences of visiting Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium
- 2007 calendar takes shape
- Bernie’s axe falls on Spa
Tags: f1 / formula one / grand prix / motor sport / f1 pictures