Spa pushing to reclaim permanent place on F1 calendar

Spa-Francorchamps is actively seeking to regain a permanent spot on the Formula 1 calendar, despite currently having an alternating contract that guarantees races in 2027, 2029, and 2031. Circuit chairman Melchior Wathelet emphasizes the historical significance of the venue, which has hosted races since 1950, and is in discussions with F1 leadership to advocate for an annual race by 2030, coinciding with Belgium's 200th anniversary. Support from drivers like Max Verstappen and figures such as Jacky Ickx and Toto Wolff highlights the importance of Spa in the F1 community.

Wathelet expresses concerns about the financial implications of alternating seasons and aims to eliminate the rotation system altogether. He believes that Spa deserves a long-term contract to ensure its future in Formula 1. The circuit's legacy and its appeal to drivers are central to Wathelet's campaign, as he remains optimistic about Spa's role in motorsport, regardless of F1's decisions.