This one is for the Belgian
Comments(0) It is with disappointment that I read that the Belgian Grand Prix might be removed from this year’s Formula 1 calendar.
Belgian Grand Prix at Spa Francorchamps, nestled among the mountains, is both spectacular and emotive. The Monaco GP might be more glamorous, but the Belgian is definitely the true driver’s circuit and has produced some of the most brilliant racing moments. The best of them all being Mika’s stunning pass of MS in the closing stages of the 2000 GP. That is arguable the greatest overtaking manoeuvre of all time, even hard core MS fans would agree.
Look at the accompanying picture, taken by one of the greatest sports photographer and you can see why this ciruit is special. It has been taken from close to the Eau Rouge, a corner thats truely breathtaking and a favourite among the specatators.
Taking this curve at full throttle seperates the men from the boys and what makes it daunting is the fact that, as you approach the curve uphill, you cant see the exit. The better drivers take it at around 300 kmph absolutely flat out, with hardly a hint of a lift.
The weather can, and often does, play a big part in making this a great circuit and due to regional weather conditions, it can be wet in one part of the circuit while being bone dry in the other, a pit stragist’s nightmare.
Somehow, the calendar feels odd in the absence of this great one.
Raghu