The Spa-Francorchamps circuit through the years

Since it was first conceived in 1921, the Spa-Francorchamps circuit - which will host the second round of the 2014 FIA World Endurance Championship - has undergone both evolution and a revolution. The original layout, which hugs the terrain of the Ardennes, had by the late 1960s become obsolete and dangerous and underwent a makeover during the next decade to adapt to the modern era.

Despite its name, the circuit of Spa-Francorchamps is not located in the territory of Spa but instead of Stavelot and Francorchamps. Originally, the public roads linking Francorchamps, Malmedy and Stavelot (extending to the south of the current track) were used to create the circuit of 14.981 kilometres. The first race was scheduled for August 1921, but it was cancelled as only one entry turned up!

It was motorcycles that finally inaugurated the circuit and, in 1924, the first 24 Hours of Spa took place - a year after the first 24 Hours of Le Mans. Races on both two and four wheels followed but the Belgians wanted to differentiate themselves from their German neighbours at the Nürburgring and decided to make Spa the fastest track in Europe.  In 1939 they undertook work that would make the Ardennes circuit world famous: Raidillon from Eau Rouge, the most purpose-built part of the track was born.

After a break of seven years due to World War II, racing activity restarted until the late 60s. However, drivers were increasingly reluctant to race on a circuit where a dozen of them had been killed over a decade. The Masta 'pif-paf' had become very dangerous and much work was needed.

The old track was halved in length and the new circuit was inaugurated in 1979. Two years later, the start line was moved to where it is now, before the La Source hairpin rather than after it. Despite these changes, it was not until the early 21st century that the circuit finally met the new safety standards required by Formula 1. A second remodelling occurred between 2006 and 2007, with the modification of the 'Bus Stop' and 'La Source' hairpin.

Fortunately, the changes to the Spa-Francorchamps circuit (now 7.004km) have not undermined its integrity and many drivers continue to cite it as their favourite circuit. On the 3rd of May, they will have the opportunity to shine on the roller coaster of the Belgian Ardennes at the WEC 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps. 

A timetable and entry list can be found HERE