Belgian Grand Prix: Changes on the track

We have repeatedly told about the course of the rebuilding at Spa, which was subjected to the Belgian Grand Prix circuit, but now the FIA ​​summarized the part of the work done directly related to racing.

It is emphasized that the main changes were intended to allow competitions of different categories to be held on the track, not only Formula 1, WEC and GT, but also the stages of MotoGP and other series organized by the FIM ( International Motorcycle Federation).

During the low season, the 7,004 m race track has undergone significant changes. These works were completed in March and already in May the race of the 6 Hours of Spa was held there, confirming that all the main distinguishing features of the circuit had been preserved.

But for example, taking into account the safety requirements adopted by the FIM, Turn 9 now has two alternative configurations that will be used depending on the nature of the competition.

The remaining changes are related to the expansion of the gravel departure zones and the addition of new ones, requiring the relocation of protective fences and curbs.

A partial replacement of the asphalt pavement was carried out, preceded by a 3D scan of the track, which allowed to identify all the unevenness, and as a result they were able to smooth out the section that starts 100m before Eau Rouge and ends 100m after the 4th bend. The tarmac was also updated from the exit of Turn 9 to the start of the braking zone before the Brussels corner.

New barriers and protective nets were installed in turns 5 and 6 to prevent the spread of debris.

Leaving Turn 7, narrower curbs were installed and a gravel exit zone appeared.

An additional gravel trap has also been installed between turns 10 and 11 and the location of the barriers has been changed. Gravel landing zones have been added between turns 12 and 13, between turns 14 and 15 and between turns 17 and 18. All this is done so that the riders are not tempted to overstep the boundaries of the track.