Belgian Grand Prix promoter Vanessa Maes has expressed optimism about the future of the race at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit.
Following a meeting with Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali in London, there are positive indications that the race will continue beyond its expiring contract, dispelling rumours of Spa’s potential elimination due to Liberty Media’s focus on new markets.
Maes, who later traveled to Canada to hold further discussions with Domenicali during the Montreal race weekend, described the London meeting as constructive.
“The appointment was positive. He is now open to discussions with us. We’re not getting carried away – we haven’t signed anything yet. But things seem to be heading in the right direction,” she stated.
Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies
While Maes confirmed that the ongoing contract discussions only pertain to the 2024 race, rumours suggest that a future “Benelux GP” will alternate between Spa and Zandvoort in the Netherlands.
Maes acknowledged the uncertainty beyond 2025, saying: “We don’t know yet what will happen after 2025.
“We know that Liberty Media wants a future with Spa-Francorchamps, when two years ago it was looking very difficult.
“They told us clearly that they no longer wanted to come to Belgium.
“But we worked a lot and that allowed us to be where we are now – that we can say that our country deserves to be on the calendar.
“We are a historic circuit but one that is looking to the future.”
READ: Max Verstappen says he wants Red Bull to pay him more
Regarding the speculation about alternating races with Zandvoort, Maes expressed uncertainty, stating: “We don’t know about that.
“What is important is to secure 2024.
I hope we’ll be on the schedule, but in any case, we are led to believe that there are possibilities. We’ll see what happens next, but we are confident now.”