The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, a historic racing track in Belgium, boasts a rich history of corner names, each with its own unique story. These names, often linked to the region's geography and culture, add a layer of intrigue to the track's layout. From the steep climb of Eau Rouge to the lap-ending Bus Stop Chicane, every turn has a tale to tell.
One of the most intriguing corners is La Source, named after the numerous water sources in the area. This corner is the slowest on the circuit and has been the site of several opening-lap incidents, adding an element of danger to its already challenging nature. Moving on, Le Raidillon de l'Eau Rouge, or the 'steep path of red water', refers to the bottom of the iconic uphill climb. The name is derived from a stream that passes beneath the track, with high iron deposits in the soil giving the water a distinctive red tint. The hill itself reaches a maximum gradient of 15%, making it one of the most widely recognized corners in F1.
Les Combes, translating to 'the valleys' or 'ravines', follows the hill and Kemmel Straight. This chicane sequence could indicate that drivers have passed the circuit's highest point and are heading downwards for the rest of the lap. It was the site of a stunning double overtake by Mika Hakkinen in 2000, showcasing the thrilling nature of the track.
Malmedy, a right-hander named after a Belgian city, was part of the original circuit mapping in 1920. The track was designed along pre-existing roads linking Spa-Francorchamps, Malmedy, and Stavelot. Bruxelles, or Rivage, is a long right-hander that can feel never-ending in wet weather. It honors Belgium's capital city and a local hamlet with the same name.
Jacky Ickx Curve, previously known as The Corner With No Name, was renamed after the legendary Belgian racer and multiple Le Mans winner. Pouhon, translating to 'the place where the water is drawn from', alludes to iron-rich mineral springs in the area. French speakers sometimes call this section 'Double Gauche', meaning 'double left'.
Fagnes, named after a nearby Fen nature reserve in the Ardennes Forest, offers a breathtaking backdrop for racing. Pif-Paf, a local slang for the chicane's rapid change of direction, is a more colloquial name. Campus, a tribute to a local education center, was previously named Stavelot after a nearby town. Curve Paul Frere honors a Belgian racing driver and journalist.
Blanchimont, named for a farm near the track, reinforces the circuit's connection to local landmarks. The final section, Bus Stop, or The Chicane, was once a public road with a bus stop. It was removed and slightly shifted to create more space for the pit lane and start/finish straight.
The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps' corner names provide a fascinating insight into the track's history and local culture, adding to the overall allure of this iconic racing venue.
