There isn’t many circuits that can boast such history, prestige, allure as the legendary Circuit de Spa Francorchamps.
For 2022 Endurance World Championship action will feature at Spa from the 2nd-5th of June, following a 24 million Euros plus investment into safety updates approved by the FIM (Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme).
New features around Spa, which first originated in 1922 include larger run-off areas, relocating safety barriers and a new Raidillon based Grandstand.
A mainstay of the Moto GP world championship for multiple years, legendary names to taste success at Spa during the real roads course configuration years included 14 times TT winner Mike Hailwood, ten times TT winner Giacomo Agostini, Phil Read MBE, John Surtees CBE and Gary Hocking.
Speaking recently about the newest two-wheel racing development for one of Belgium’s top sporting attractions, Melchoir Wathelet who is Chairman of the Board of Directors for Spa Francorchamps, stated:
“We are delighted to welcome the FIM EWC, an internationally renowned championship, to Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps.
I would like to thank our partner François Ribeiro from Discovery Sports Events of course, but also FIM and FMB for their confidence and finally the teams and riders who can’t wait to take part in this great event.
Our teams are working tirelessly and hand in hand with event coordinator Claude Michy and his team. We are also happy to offer an exceptional weekend of entertainment.
On track with the 24H SPA EWC Motos but also the three-support series that will complete the programme: the 4 Hours of Spa Classic, the FIM Sidecar World Championship and finally the International Bridgestone Handy Race.
Around the track there will be many animations and experiences to ensure we can welcome fans in the best conditions.”
Although now not the Spa course synonymous with pure road racing, there’s still a real roads vibe in much the same way as applicable to Schleizer Dreieck or Cadwell Park.
Requiring relentless commitment, top draw bike control, those tackling the EWC round at Spa will need to call upon all of their astute racing make-up to set stellar lap times, contend for first class results.
Keeping on-board with the topic of bike racing across Belgium, it’s more than worth reminding everyone that the IRRC series returns this summer to Circuit De Chimay, with competition scheduled to take place from the 23rd-24th July.
Photo courtesy of EWC press team
Quotes courtesy of EWC press team
Words by Stevie Rial #dontletfearcontrolyou