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Plan Your Visit to Belgian GP 2023 | Timings, Address & More!

Belgian GP 2023 is one of the most anticipated motor racing events of the year. Since its inception in 1925, it has been a staple on the F1 calendar and continues to be one of the sport’s most iconic races. The legendary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps provides an exciting backdrop for this classic race. If you are planning to attend Belgian GP 2023, here are several important things to consider.

Belgian GP Timings

All timings mentioned are according to track time.

Belgian GP Day 1

Day 1 - Friday

28th July

FP1 & Qualifying

Free Practice 1 will be the first time the drivers hit the track in the Austrian Grand Prix.

An hour on the tracks will allow them to fine-tune their cars and prepare themselves for the first qualifying round that will determine the grid for Sunday.

Free Practice 1

  • 13:30-14:30

Qualifying

  • 17:00 - 18:00
Belgian GP Day 2

Day 2 - Saturday

29th July

Sprint Shootout & Sprint

The second, shorter qualifying session on the second day, the Sprint Shootout, has replaced the second one-hour practice session, setting the grid for the Sprint.


Saturday is now a standalone event, where the Sprint Shootout and F1 Sprint do not impact the Grand Prix and encourages drivers to push more in the Sprint for more points. 

Sprint Shootout

  • 12:30 - 13:30

Sprint

  • 16:30 - 17:30
Belgian GP Day 3

Day 3 - Sunday

30th July

Race Day

Friday's practice and Qualifying session decided the grid layout for this main event.

Feel the energy and the adrenaline rushing as you witness the teams line up on the track, eventually resulting in an action-packed and memorable racing event.

Main Race

  • 15:00 - 17:00

Getting to Belgian GP 2023

Belgian GP

Plan Your Visit to Belgian GP 2023

Facilities
Weather
Rules & Regulations
What to Expect?
Belgian GP facilities

Facilities at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps

  • Food and beverage outlets: There are plenty of food and beverage outlets throughout the circuit, serving a range of snacks, drinks, and meals.
  • First Aid: There are several first aid stations located around the circuit, staffed with medical professionals.
  • Restrooms: Restrooms are available throughout the circuit, near the grandstands and food and beverage outlets.
  • Parking: There are several car parks available, both free and paid, located around the circuit.
Belgian GP weather

Weather in Spa

What to Expect in July?

Day: 20°C-25°C

Night: 10°C - 15°C

Rainfall:  6.3 inches, moderate rain can be expected

Humidity: 65%, moderately humid.

Winds:  12 mph, moderately windy.

Sunlight: 14 hours

Belgian GP rules and regulations
  • No smoking: Smoking is prohibited in all grandstands and enclosed areas.
  • No pets: Animals, with the exception of guide dogs, are not allowed.
  • No drones: Drones and other unmanned aerial vehicles are not permitted on or near the circuit.
  • No glass containers: Glass containers and bottles are not allowed on the circuit.
  • No weapons or dangerous items: Any weapons or dangerous items, such as knives, firearms, or explosives, are strictly prohibited.
  • Stay in designated areas: Spectators must remain in designated areas and follow the instructions of circuit staff.
  • Obey safety regulations: All safety regulations, including those regarding fire safety, must be obeyed.
  • No unauthorized access: Spectators are not permitted to enter the track or any restricted areas.
  • Respect others: Spectators must respect other attendees and behave in a manner that does not interfere with other's enjoyment of the event.
  • Grandstands: There are several grandstands located around the circuit, offering great views of the track.
  • Fan Zone: The Fan Zone is an entertainment area with music, food and drinks, and interactive activities for fans of all ages.
  • Merchandise stores: You can buy official F1 merchandise and souvenirs at various stores located around the circuit.

Visitor Tips

  • Wear comfortable clothing and shoes: The circuit is located in a forested area, so be sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat: The sun can be strong, so be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Arrive early: Traffic can be heavy on race days, so arrive early to avoid delays and give yourself plenty of time to find parking and get to your seat.
  • Stay hydrated: It's important to stay hydrated, especially on hot days, so bring a water bottle with you and refill it at the various water fountains and hydration stations throughout the circuit.
  • Bring earplugs: F1 cars are very loud, so bring earplugs or noise-canceling headphones to protect your hearing.
  • Check the weather forecast: The weather in the Ardennes region can be unpredictable, so check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.
  • Follow the rules and regulations: Follow the circuit's rules and regulations to ensure your safety and the safety of others.
  • Explore the area: Take some time to explore the beautiful surrounding area, including the nearby town of Spa and the Ardennes forest.
  • Plan your accommodation: Accommodation options can fill up quickly, so plan your accommodation well in advance.
  • Enjoy the experience: Above all, enjoy the excitement and atmosphere of the F1 race and make the most of your experience at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps.

Plan Your Visit to Belgian GP 2023

When is the Belgian GP?

The Belgian GP 2023 kicks off on Friday, July 28, 2023, with the main race being held on Sunday, July 30, 2023.

Where is the Belgian GP?

Belgian GP will take place at the iconic Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in Spa, Belgium.

What time does the Belgian GP start?

The Belgian GP 2023 starts on Friday, July 28, 2023, at 1:30 PM with Free Practice 1.

What has changed in the F1 2023 format?

The key change is that the result of Saturday’s shorter race will no longer affect the grid for Sunday’s Grand Prix and will be decided by Friday’s qualifying session. The fastest car on Friday evening will start from the pole on Sunday.

How does the new 2023 sprint format affect the race?

In contrast to past seasons, the Sprint race outcome in 2023 will not determine the starting grid for the Grand Prix. Consequently, there will be only one practice session on Friday before qualifying, establishing the starting grid for Sunday's Grand Prix.

What is an F1 Sprint shootout?

The most significant modification to the F1 format is the introduction of the "F1 Sprint Shootout," which serves as a new qualifying format for the Sprint race. In previous seasons, the Friday qualifying session established the grid for Saturday's sprint race, which would then determine the basis for the grid on Sunday. However, this year, the F1 Sprint Shootout will be a separate one-time qualifying event for the Sprint race, held before Saturday's event on the same Grand Prix weekend.

How does the sprint shootout affect the final grid position?

The sprint shootout does not affect the final grid position, as it is a standalone event of the Grand Prix now. In fact, the grid for the final race on Sunday is determined by the qualifying session on Friday.

What’s the best way to get to the Belgian GP?

The best way to get to the Belgian Grand Prix at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is by car or public transportation. If you're driving, the circuit is easily accessible from major cities in Belgium and neighboring countries. Paid parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly on race days. If you prefer public transportation, there are shuttle buses and trains available from nearby cities, including Brussels and Liege.

Are there any facilities at the Belgian GP?

Yes, at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, facilities available for F1 viewers include multiple grandstands with views of the track, food, and beverage vendors, merchandise shops, restrooms, and first aid stations. Additionally, there is limited paid parking available, as well as shuttle buses and trains from nearby cities for transportation.

Is parking available at Belgian GP?

Yes, limited paid parking is available at the Belgian GP.

What should I wear to the race?

When attending the Belgian Grand Prix at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, it's important to dress for comfort and be prepared for variable weather conditions. Wear comfortable walking shoes and clothing that is suitable for walking on uneven terrains, such as jeans or shorts and a t-shirt or lightweight jacket. Be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, and a rain jacket or poncho in case of rain.

What’s the weather like in Spa during the Grand Prix?

Temperatures typically range from the low to mid-20s (60s to 80s Fahrenheit), with occasional rain showers or thunderstorms. It's recommended to check the weather forecast leading up to the race and pack accordingly, with lightweight and breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.

Are there any prohibited items in the Belgian GP?

Yes, there are prohibited items at the Belgian Grand Prix at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, and it's important to be aware of these to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Prohibited items include glass bottles, cans, weapons, fireworks, flares, laser pointers, drones, and illegal substances.

Can I film in the Belgian GP?

Professional photography or videography is not allowed without the circuit management's prior written consent. However, you are allowed to record using a personal device for your own use.