The famous Spa-Francorchamps circuit, scene of the Belgian Grand Prix, could well see its future in Formula 1 threatened.
As F1 owner Liberty Media seeks to expand the championship calendar to new destinations, the fate of Spa-Francorchamps appears uncertain despite its historic status. Since the 1960s, this emblematic circuit has been one of the flagship events of the F1 calendar, but the pressure is increasing for 2026.
The annual shopping limit poses a problem
The main obstacle facing the Belgian Grand Prix is the limited number of races that Formula 1 can organize each season. The Concorde Agreement, which governs relations between F1, teams and organizers, allows a maximum of 25 Grands Prix per year. However, most in the sport believe that 24 races is already a difficult limit for teams and drivers to maintain.
With the planned addition of Madrid in 2026, the competition to maintain a place on the calendar is intensifying. The idea of alternating certain European races, such as Spa and Zandvoort, is increasingly discussed, in particular because of the saturation of the calendar. Spa’s current contract expires in 2025, and without a renewal, the circuit’s future in F1 is far from guaranteed.
A political declaration which aggravates the situation
Uncertainty around the future of the Belgian Grand Prix has recently been exacerbated by statements from a Belgian politician. Pascal Arimont, an MEP from the Spa region, has publicly criticized Liberty Media’s influence on Formula 1, questioning their management of the sport. According to Joe Saward, journalist specializing in F1, these comments could harm the ongoing negotiations to extend the presence of Spa on the calendar.
Arimont, in his intervention, expressed his concerns about the control of Liberty Media, pointing out the impact on historic circuits like Spa. However, this position comes at a delicate time. Saward warns the exit could jeopardize crucial discussions between Grand Prix organizers and Liberty Media.
“The timing of this declaration is anything but ideal for Spa” notes Saward, adding that this could further complicate the future of the Belgian GP.
Heavy investments but an uncertain future
Despite these political tensions, Spa-Francorchamps spared no effort to remain competitive. The circuit has recently undergone significant modernization works, with a complete resurfacing in 2024, which has improved grip and reduced lap times.
These investments are in addition to a larger project carried out in 2022, worth 80 million euros, intended to modernize the infrastructure and make the circuit safer, particularly for motorcycle competitions.
However, even with these improvements, the future of the Belgian Grand Prix remains uncertain. Although the circuit has sold all its tickets for the 2024 edition, this may not be enough to guarantee its place on the calendar in the long term. Spa must now navigate complex discussions, while facing fierce competition from new destinations wishing to join Formula 1.
The future of this emblematic race therefore rests not only on efforts to modernize the circuit, but also on the ability of Belgian officials to skillfully negotiate with Liberty Media.