Formula 1 Agrees To Multi-Year Extension With Belgian Grand Prix

January 9, 2025: Formula 1 has secured a multi-year extension with the Belgian Grand Prix, ensuring that the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps will remain a key fixture on the calendar for the next several years. The agreement will see the legendary circuit host F1 races in 2026, 2027, 2029, and 2031, continuing the long-standing tradition of the Belgian GP in the sport.

This extension comes after significant investments in the circuit, which include the addition of two new grandstands, increasing capacity by 10,000 spectators, as well as improvements to off-track entertainment and the fan experience. The work done on Spa-Francorchamps has allowed the iconic venue to remain competitive and appealing to both fans and drivers alike.

The 2024 Belgian Grand Prix was a thrilling weekend, attracting 380,000 fans over the course of the event, and delivering some exciting racing. Lewis Hamilton claimed his second win of the season and his fifth at Spa, continuing the track’s legacy of unforgettable moments.

Built in 1921, Spa-Francorchamps has been a major part of Formula 1’s history. It was one of just seven circuits to host a race during F1’s inaugural championship in 1950 and has hosted 57 Grands Prix since then. The circuit is revered for its challenging layout, which includes famous sections like Eau Rouge and Raidillon, followed by the Kemmel straight. At 7.004 km, it is the longest track on the F1 calendar and a favorite among drivers for its blend of high-speed straights and technical corners.

Many of F1’s greatest drivers, including Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, Niki Lauda, and Sebastian Vettel, have triumphed at this iconic circuit. Current drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Charles Leclerc, and Max Verstappen have also secured victories here, making Spa-Francorchamps a proving ground for many of F1’s stars.

Looking ahead, the 2025 Belgian Grand Prix is set to take place from July 25-27 and will feature the return of the F1 Sprint format, adding extra excitement to the weekend’s racing. Fans can expect even more thrilling action across all three days of the event.

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO of Formula 1, expressed his excitement over the deal, highlighting Spa-Francorchamps’ significance in F1 history:
“The Belgian Grand Prix was one of the races that made up our maiden Championship in 1950, so as we kick off our 75th anniversary year, it is fitting that we can share the news of this important extension. Spa-Francorchamps is rightly lauded by drivers and fans alike as one of the finest racetracks in the world.”

He also praised the improvements made to the circuit and the fan experience, acknowledging the hard work of the Walloon Government and the Belgian Grand Prix team in making the event a success.

Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Walloon Government, highlighted the broader economic impact:
“I am delighted that the Belgian Grand Prix – a must-attend event for Wallonia – has been confirmed on the F1 calendar for several years. The event generates significant economic benefits for Wallonia and Belgium, and the extension of this relationship will allow the circuit teams to plan for the future.”

Melchior Wathelet and Vanessa Maes, President and CEO of Spa Grand Prix, also celebrated the extension, underscoring the growth of the event and the support from fans and the Walloon Government.
“This contract extension has once again been made possible thanks to the support of the Walloon Government but also the fans of what we believe is the most beautiful circuit in the world.”

With the Belgian Grand Prix locked in for several more years, Spa-Francorchamps will continue to be one of F1’s most beloved venues. The 2025 race promises to be another exciting chapter in the circuit’s long history, as Formula 1 strengthens its relationship with the Spa Grand Prix team and the Walloon Government.