All you need to know about the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps

As the 2026 Formula 1 season enters its 10th round at the historic Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, teams and drivers prepare for the unique challenges of the Belgian Grand Prix. Known for its legendary Eau Rouge-Raidillon sequence, unpredictable weather, and demanding elevation changes, the 7-kilometer track remains the longest on the calendar. Former F1 driver Jolyon Palmer highlights the strategic balancing act required at Spa, noting that teams must choose between low-downforce setups for straights or more downforce for the twisty middle sector. With the Kemmel Straight offering prime overtaking opportunities, qualifying position is not always a guarantee of success, as leading cars can be vulnerable to slipstreaming. New 2026 regulations introduce 'Straight Mode' and 'Overtake Mode,' replacing the old DRS system. Straight Mode automatically adjusts front and rear wing elements across five designated zones to minimize drag, while Overtake Mode provides an electrical power boost to facilitate passing. Drivers will utilize five Straight Mode zones throughout the lap, with the Overtake detection point located at the final corner to prepare for the run down the start-finish straight.