The FIA confirmed an important measure for the Belgian Grand Prix of Formula 1 at Spa-Francorchamps, by establishing five activation zones for the straight mode along the circuit. The decision reinforces the concern over energy management on one of the calendar’s most demanding tracks.
This development gains relevance after the apprehensions shown by drivers ahead of the England GP, when there were fears of large performance differences caused by the phenomenon known as super clipping. Although the impact at Silverstone was smaller than initially anticipated, Spa is set to bring the topic back into the spotlight.
The Belgian circuit is considered particularly challenging due to its long straights and the few opportunities to recover energy throughout a lap. To minimize this scenario, cars will be allowed to use the straight mode in five specific segments, enabling the simultaneous activation of the front and rear wings to reduce aerodynamic drag.
One of the most notable points will be the descent between La Source and Eau Rouge. Drivers will be able to use the system before the iconic sequence of corners, but the wings will be closed again for safety before entering Eau Rouge.
The other zones will be distributed between La Source and Eau Rouge, on the Kemmel straight toward Les Combes, at the exit of Stavelot, with deactivation before Blanchimont, and on the final stretch toward the Bus Stop chicane. The setup was designed to balance performance and safety on a track known for its high speeds.
The McLaren team principal, Andrea Stella, stated that Spa will present a particular challenge for all teams, especially due to the impact on power unit management and the energy available during a lap. According to him, the situation echoes what was observed at Silverstone, albeit in a potentially more complex context.
“Much of the worry related to energy use before the England race ended up being less severe than expected, allowing competitive races,” Stella said. Still, the official noted that drivers raised concerns about the unpredictability of speed differences, something that, in his view, deserves attention.
For the Italian team principal, Spa should amplify this challenge due to even longer straights. Stella added that despite the introduction of the five straight-mode zones, there will be parts of the circuit where the feature cannot be used because of the high lateral forces generated in certain corners.
