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Spa-Francorchamps safe enough? 'It is safe from an FIA perspective'

Spa-Francorchamps safe enough? 'It is safe from an FIA perspective'

04-08-2021 17:38 Last update: 20:42
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GPblog.com

There is a lot going on around the Spa-Francorchamps circuit. A few weeks ago the circuit had to deal with a lot of rain, which caused a lot of damage. Besides that it will be the first race since the summer break, the last one before Zandvoort. But once again there is a discussion about the safety of the circuit.

And it's all about the legendary Eau Rouge corner. Last weekend there was another huge accident. It happened during the Spa 24 Hours. Davide Rigon got slightly injured, and Williams reserve driver Jack Aitken got a collarbone fracture and other vertebrae.

Masi says circuit is safe enough and has undergone change

Because that, especially with the fatal accident of Anthoine Hubert in 2019(Formula 2) in mind, the question is aimed towards the Grand Prix. Race director Michael Masi says the circuit is safe enough. He is responding to comments made by Callum Ilott, who also competed in the 24 Hours at Spa. Masi said the following to Motorsport.com.

"There has been work done at Spa in a number of areas, but the Spa circuit has a current Grade 1 [the FIA licence required for F1 use]. There are a few changes and improvements that are made from year to year. I think the way it is now, it's safe from an FIA perspective."

"None of us like to see major incidents, and I'm just happy that the drivers are relatively healthy," the Australian continued. "I've seen a few media reports today and they (Aiken and Rigon) are well and healthy and that's the most important thing. They have a recovery ahead of them, but that's the general aspect there."

In short, the circuit is safe enough according to the FIA and will simply be used when the second half of the season starts again at the end of August.