Designing F1, Tracks for the Ages: Spa-Francorchamps

Designing F1, Tracks for the Ages is a set of racing articles by Rear View Prints staff where we highlight the very best Formula 1 tracks in the world. Discover the reasons why our expert designers have chosen these tracks to represent our popular Formula 1 Print series.

Spa-Francorchamps. Even the name rolls off the tongue like a highly skilled driver owning a strip of pavement with confidence. And as an F1 track, it’s hard to forget. When our staff discussed which track we should highlight first, we all agreed that the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps would likely be our first. As we’re about to see, there’s definitely a reason that this track was at the top of our minds.

An F1 Track with a Special History

When it comes to F1 tracks, our RVP designers love the history behind the Spa-Francorchamps. A quick look at its story reveals a failed first race (when only one racer showed up), a slew of interesting changes, and what was at one time the fastest circuit in all of Europe. Another aspect that captured our attention is how areas of the track were publicly used up until the turn of the century.

A Unique Track with Serious Challenges

But what also drew our designers’ attention to this track was its sheer difficulty. Sporting formidable curves, some of its iterations have included sections that were known for being intensely challenging. As designers ourselves, we can’t help but appreciate that raw energy that can be created by something as simple as a well-chosen line. If you’ve ever watched a car cam from this track, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about.

Connecting with the Spa-Francorchamps

Another really cool aspect about this track is how easily you can connect with it. Yes, you can connect with the track! From the official Twitter to Facebook page, the track has a nice social media presence that allows you to dive right in yourself. And while it’s not updated as often as we would like, the YouTube channel also has videos that put you in the driver’s seat. Pretty awesome!

The Presence of the Simplicity

Still, let’s talk design considerations. When you check out our Spa-Francorchamps print, aptly named the Twists of Fate, you’ll be hit by one thing… from above, this track is gorgeous in its simplicity. The Kemmel Straight, the Rivage 8, the Curve Paul Frere 15, and La Source. This F1 track is truly a feat of engineering. And when our RVP designers first brought it to life in our beautiful F1 print series, we knew we had a winner. The presence of this track in your home and office is beyond compare. For fans of Formula 1, this track is an unforgettable design without equal.