A motorsport fan’s guide to Wallonia – home of Spa-Francorchamps

The 2023 motorsport calendar is fast approaching its busy summer period. Tickets to our favourite events are already running out, so it’s time to start planning your summer.

Home of the legendary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, and thanks in part to its connection with the current F1 wonderkid Max Verstappen, Belgium has seen its motorsport pedigree grow in recent years.

Here’s why Wallonia should be your motorsport destination of choice in 2023.

Why Wallonia?

Wallonia is the southern, French speaking part of Belgium, the conveniently located home of chocolate, beer and Poirot. To the north are the Flemish speaking regions of Belgium, where Max Verstappen was born. To the south, Wallonia borders Germany, Luxembourg and France.

Naturally, the region has a big influence from the surrounding European nations. You may well hear German, Dutch and even Luxembourgish alongside the more widely spoken French when walking around the towns.

Famous for its Second World War history, stunning countryside and of course beer, this part of the world has so much to offer alongside it rich motorsport heritage.

Wallonia offers unspoilt countryside, history and plenty of motorsports events

The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is one of the most anticipated pit stops in the F1 calendar, The track is actually just an hour and a half drive from the Nürburgring in Germany, making the two legendary circuits obvious stop off points on the ultimate motorsport road trip.

Look out for the red rooster, the symbol of Wallonia.

Motorsport events in Wallonia this summer

Belgian Grand Prix (28-30 July)

F1

Max Verstappen at the Belgian Grand Prix (Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps)

This is the jewel in the crown of the Belgian motorsport calendar. Many locals class this as a Verstappen home race, and the Orange Army are guaranteed to be out in impressive numbers.

The full force of Formula 1 will descend upon the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in the Wallonian forest in late July, the ideal time of year to enjoy the Belgian weather.

Get your tickets to the Belgian GP here!

Spa 24h (29 June-2 July)

WEC

The Spa 24h celebrates its 99th birthday in 2023

With a 99 year history, this epic endurance race is only one year younger than the Le Mans 24h. Perhaps not quite as well known, not having had the spotlight of Hollywood shone on it like its French counterpart, the Spa 24h race offers very much the same as Le Mans.

Each year the best manufacturer wins the Coupe du Roi (King’s Cup). BMW holds the record for the most wins with 24.

Spa Classic (12-14 May)

HISTORIC EVENT

Spot your favourite classic cars at the Spa Classic

The Spa Classic is a celebration of motoring heritage, as classic cars from across the globe gather at the Spa track – why not bring yours? Track laps are available throughout the weekend, and a variety of hotels and campsites are located close to the site.

Choose your vantage point in the grandstands, paddock or you may even decide to head into the woods to discover your own private spot to watch the motoring action.

Get your tickets to the Spa Classic here!

Jaguar Ardennes (10-14 September)

DRIVING TOUR

Wallonia boast the Belgian Ardennes, a fairytale landscape steeped in history

This exclusive drive through the breathtaking Belgian Ardennes is the best way to experience this fairytale part of the world. With a four-star castle in Dinant as your base, the tour explores ancient abbeys, deep forests and follows twisting rivers through the unspoiled countryside.

Drive through towns and villages steeped in World War II history, and visit the famous Leffe brewery – after all, you have to sample a beer or two in Belgium.

Get your tickets to the Jaguar Ardennes Driving Tour here!