The Formula 1 classic in Spa is on the brink of extinction: Max Verstappen has no desire for even more city races and calls for Limt of making money with track fees
It could possibly be the last Formula 1 race in France on Sunday for the time being. However, while most Formula One fans can still stomach a departure of the Le Castellet track, the traditional circuit in Belgium is also in danger of losing its place on the racing calendar.
“It’s sad,” says world champion Max Verstappen of the current race calendar discussions for 2023. “Spa is my favourite circuit and it’s beautiful to drive. It’s an iconic track and I don’t want to race only on street circuits in 2028 just for the fan engagement. We need tracks [like Spa] like this on the race calendar.”
Formula 1 is looking to expand the calendar from the current 22 races to 24 for the 2023 season. After a one-year break, the Qatar Prix will return, while a race will also be held in Las Vegas for the first time. That would already fill the calendar, but a return of races in China and South Africa is not ruled out.
The contracts of the circuits in Monaco, France and Belgium expire at the end of 2022, so it is likely that one of these races will not make the jump to the 2023 season. However, it is assumed that the Monaco race will be extended, leaving Le Castellet and Spa on the backburner.
“I realise that everyone wants to make money, but there should also be a limit because it’s important to keep these really cool circuits,” Verstappen adds. “And I also understand that it’s more difficult [at Spa] compared to other tracks with the traffic [for spectators].”
“Still, we shouldn’t only race on street circuits, which don’t suit the current Formula One cars anyway,” the Red Bull driver added.
