‘Why Belgium is the Best Grand Prix on the F1 Calendar’

Eau Rouge is ‘Absolutely Insane’

When most F1 fans think about the Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps, there’s one part of the circuit that instantly comes to mind: Eau Rouge. The corner name translates to “red water” and reaches a maximum gradient of 15% for a totally epic elevation change.

“I genuinely think that every motorsport fan should see it in person, at least once,” Maë says about the iconic corner.

“Eau Rouge is absolutely insane. Raidillon doesn’t look anything like it does on TV, it's 100 times more impressive. I’ve been to Spa 11 times now, including for the Grand Prix weekends in 2023 and 2024, and I know the track like the back of my hand.

“But Eau Rouge still blows my mind every time.

“Honestly, you don’t realise how steep it is until you’re climbing it,” Maë continues,

“It’s only when you're halfway up, out of breath, that it really hits you. One day, I need to experience it in a car. The sensations must be absolutely unreal.”

A Racetrack that Feels Like Home

On the subject of big elevation changes, the Raidillon grandstand is Maë’s personal pick for the best spot to watch over the weekend.

“Fair warning… it’s a hike!” she says.

“It’s kind of my personal Everest when I’m at the track! The path is so steep you will feel it in your legs halfway up, but the view is 100% worth it. You can see the cars exit Turn 1, climb up to Raidillon and shoot off down Kemmel.

“The vibe is totally different up there: calm, peaceful, and kind of magical.”

Having watched lots of racing from that area, she’s still to experience F1 from those seats.

Last year, Maë was able to support the team from the Gold 1 area, and I loved it.

“There was constant action, a perfect view of the pit lane, all the pit stops, the grid setup, the start, the finish, and the podium all without leaving your seat. It was incredible,” she explains.

“Spa is in the middle of the Belgian Ardennes, surrounded by forest. The vibe is completely different from any other circuit. It’s like time stops for the weekend and all your problems just pause. There’s this warm, family feel. You feel right at home there.”

Historic Spa

As one of the original circuits on F1’s 1950 calendar, Spa-Francorchamps is steeped in history.

It’s changed a lot over time but remains the longest circuit we race at with generations of drivers and cars taking to the unique and special track.

“I love history, and I can’t help but think about how the original track used to be double the size it is now,” Maë says.

“When I think of Spa, I think of Michael Schumacher’s F1 debut and his very first win in 1992.

“Even after shortening it and turning it into a closed circuit, they managed to keep its soul — that special something makes Spa what it is.

“It’s one of the most legendary tracks on the calendar. All around the circuit there are giant helmets honouring iconic drivers, telling their stories and the story of Spa.”

Unpredictable Weather

Much like Silverstone last time out, Spa-Francorchamps is a very popular venue for camping.

However, Maë has always found alternative accommodation nearby, which sounds like a sensible plan considering her luck with the elements.

“I’m not a huge camping fan, especially with Spa’s unpredictable weather!

“Last year I went with friends for the 24 Hours of Spa. We rented an Airbnb nearby ‘just in case’ and thank Goodness we did as a huge storm hit during the night! We were drenched head-to-toe, like we’d taken a shower fully clothed, but every single time I’ve been to Spa there’s always been some rain.

“That’s the magic of this place: it can go from soaking wet to sunny in minutes. Just don’t forget the umbrella and sunscreen.”

If you’re needing to warm up, there are two brilliant Belgian treats on hand: waffles and fries. But which is the best for a trackside snack?

“I’ll go with Belgian fries because nothing beats them,” Maë answers.

“But you have to try them with fricandelles, a Belgian specialty that totally hits, especially with mayo.”

“From that Moment, Mercedes Became My Team”

Maë is also a big George Russell fan and was there to see him take the checkered flag first at Spa-Francorchamps in 2024.

“I’ll never forget that moment for the rest of my life. George is my favourite driver, and those last laps battling with Lewis were intense. I couldn’t sit still!” she recalls.

“I remember the exact moment he crossed the finish line. I was so emotional seeing my favourite driver win, especially at my favourite track. I was so proud seeing him on the podium.

“I was obviously disappointed when he got disqualified, but no one can take away the fact that I saw my driver cross that line first with my own eyes.”

After her first visit to Spa in 2022, Maë knew she wanted to support Mercedes and bought her first piece of merchandise, a white George cap, after qualifying that year.

“Supporting Mercedes just felt right. I bought my first piece of merchandise, and I still have it. From that moment on, Mercedes became my team.”