Five Fast Facts about the Belgian Grand Prix

The circuit of Spa-Francorchamps remains the longest on the Formula 1 calendar, at 7,004 km, ahead of modern designs in Jeddah, Las Vegas and Baku. But it used to be twice as long: 14.9 kilometres, to be more precise. Designed in 1920, the original course was laid out on public roads between the towns of Francorchamps, Malmedy and Stavelot. This incredibly fast circuit also became increasingly dangerous as speeds increased, and in 1979 it was redeveloped to create the shorter layout recognisable today. Numerous smaller modifications have been made since, but several sections have their roots in the original circuit: most famous of all being the epic uphill Eau Rouge and Raidillon sequence.

The most recent changes to the Spa circuit were made ahead of 2022, primarily aimed at allowing motorcycle racing to return. They also helped to restore some of the track's character: while some run-off areas were enlarged, others were partly or entirely replaced by gravel traps. This undulating, rollercoaster of a circuit remains one of the most challenging in Formula 1, with each lap subjecting heavy forces on the tyres from just about every direction. Car setup is a tricky compromise too, between optimising straight-line speed and having as much downforce as possible in the corners.

In recent years, the Belgian Grand Prix has been held as the first race after Formula 1's summer break, usually taking place at the end of August. For 2023, it moves forward by four weeks to the final weekend in July, becoming the last race before the holidays. That's not the only novelty for 2023, though. Spa will also be the third of six sprint events to be held this season, providing fans with even more competitive action around this popular venue.

Incidentally, the new date for the Belgian Grand Prix was previously reserved for another major race hosted annually at the circuit: the Spa 24 Hours. Part of the Pirelli-supported  GT World Challenge, this endurance classic was also held a month earlier than usual this year. As usual, it was the biggest event of the season for Pirelli, which normally supplies around 14,000 tyres for the 24-hour race plus support categories. Compare that to around 2500 tyres for a weekend of Formula 1, Formula 2 and Formula 3.

Perhaps surprisingly, the Belgian flag has never been raised above the top step of the podium after a Belgian Grand Prix. The legendary Jacky Ickx won eight Formula 1 races but never in his home country, although he did finish second at Spa for Ferrari in 1968. But home fans have plenty to cheer about right now: the winner of the last two Spa races, Max Verstappen, while proudly Dutch, was born in Belgium. And he's one of three drivers on the grid whose mother is Belgian, together with Lando Norris and Lance Stroll.