The future of Spa-Francorchamps on the F1 racing calendar is in serious jeopardy after the news that the local Council of State has decided to suspend the track’s license until 2026.
The news comes a blow as it remains a favourite of many fans and drivers alike.
A new permit was issued to the track in 2007 however the permit came with the condition that the track owners would carry out an environmental impact study having received complaints from locals about noise from the track. According to PitPass, the Council of State has now declared that the work done to the track is seriously inadequate and incomplete and they have therefore decided to revoke the circuit’s license for 17 years.
“Since the filing of the complaint, the situation has changed,” circuit director Pierre-Alain Thibaut told Lesoir.
“The circuit has worked hard to reduce noise and relations with local residents has improved.
“It is a difficult situation, however we have made commitments vis-a-vis a range of people and we must comply on pain of having to pay damages.
“We will challenge the government and organise a dialogue with the board of residents.”