Horner thinks Spa should be given protected status: 'Part of our DNA'

Lando Norris has indicated that he would rather not see Spa-Francorchamps disappear from the Formula 1 calendar, joining many others in expressing the same opinion. Christian Horner has also entered the discussion: the Red Bull Racing team boss has identified Spa as one of the circuits that should be protected by F1.

After the summer break, the F1 season will resume at Spa-Francorchamps, an iconic venue with a rich history that is a favourite with many drivers and fans of the sport. However, the Belgian circuit has an expiring contract and may be on the calendar for the last, if not the second last time. However, there are talks about the possibility of alternating the event with the French Grand Prix, which would allow both races to take place at least every other year.

Horner is of the opinion that some circuits should be protected because of their historical importance for the sport. "Spa, for sure... it's one of those historic races," the Red Bull team boss told Sky Sports. "Monza, Silverstone, Spa, they're the big and historic ones, we should ringfence those and protect those. They're part of our history, they're part of our DNA. You've got to have that history. It'd be like having the ATP Tour without Wimbledon."

Max Verstappen, for whom Spa is considered a home race, would also not like to see the Belgian Grand Prix disappear. "It would be a big shame to lose Spa," says the reigning world champion. "It's my favourite track in the world."

In the meantime, the Belgian GP organisation is pulling out all the stops to put itself in the spotlight. To this end, the circuit has invested over 80 million euros in renovations, including a new grandstand at the legendary Eau Rouge-Raidillon corner combination. The entertainment programme and the infrastructure have also been worked on.