The Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, home of the Belgian Grand Prix, is renowned for its challenging layout and rich history in Formula One. It is also notable for being the site where several legendary drivers have claimed their maiden Formula One victories.
Here are the stories of the drivers who achieved their first F1 wins at Spa-Francorchamps:
4. Peter Collins (Ferrari) - 1956
/sportsinfo/media/media_files/dfnefb.jpg)
Star British driver Peter Collins secured his maiden Formula 1 victory at the 1956 Belgian Grand Prix while driving for Ferrari. Collins was a talented and versatile driver, and his win at Spa was a testament to his skill and the competitiveness of the Ferrari team during that era.
The 1956 season was crucial for Ferrari, and Collins’ victory at Spa-Francorchamps helped solidify his reputation as a rising star in Formula One. This win was significant not only for Collins but also for Ferrari, as it demonstrated the strength and reliability of their cars.
3. Jim Clark (Lotus) - 1962
/sportsinfo/media/media_files/dwerfgthy.jpg)
Jim Clark, one of the most naturally gifted drivers in the history of motorsport, won his first Formula 1 race at the Belgian Grand Prix in 1962. He did it while driving for the Lotus F1 team. Clark's victory at Spa was dominant, showcasing his exceptional car control and raw speed.
This win was the beginning of a glittering career for Clark, who would go on to win two World Championships and become one of the sport’s greatest legends. The 1962 Belgian Grand Prix was marked by treacherous conditions, and Clark’s ability to navigate the challenging Spa circuit in the rain was a harbinger of his future successes.
2. Michael Schumacher (Benetton) - 1992
/sportsinfo/media/media_files/michael-schumacher.jpg)
Legendary F1 driver Michael Schumacher’s first Formula 1 victory came at the 1992 Belgian Grand Prix while driving for Benetton. Schumacher’s win at Spa is often regarded as the start of one of the most successful careers in the sport’s history.
Known for his exceptional driving skills and strategic acumen, Schumacher's triumph at Spa highlighted his potential. He would go on to win seven World Championships, with Spa-Francorchamps becoming one of his favourite circuits. His maiden win at Spa was a defining moment, demonstrating his ability to excel in difficult conditions and setting the stage for his future dominance.
1. Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) - 2019
/sportsinfo/media/media_files/efretryht.jpg)
Charles Leclerc secured his first Formula 1 victory at the 2019 Belgian Grand Prix while driving for Ferrari. Leclerc’s win was emotional and poignant, coming just a day after the tragic death of his friend and fellow driver, Anthoine Hubert.
He died in a Formula 2 race at the same circuit. Despite the sorrowful circumstances, Leclerc drove a composed and determined race, holding off challenges from Mercedes drivers to take the checkered flag. This victory marked Leclerc as a future star in Formula 1 and provided a much-needed triumph for Ferrari, showcasing his talent and resilience under pressure.