Pierre Gasly expressed mixed emotions about racing at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit, where he feels the thrill of being on a beloved track contrasted by painful memories of the tragic events that occurred in 2019, when fellow driver Anthoine Hubert lost his life in a multi-car accident during a Formula 2 race. Hubert’s accident, which involved several cars, dramatically altered Gasly’s perception of this historically celebrated venue.
As he prepares for the Belgian Grand Prix weekend, Gasly reflected on his history with Spa, recalling his first victory in Formula 4 there. However, he candidly acknowledged that since Hubert’s death, his experience at the track is now tinged with sadness. “There are always images in my head that I would rather never have seen,” he mentioned, underscoring the emotional complexity of returning to a place that holds both joy and sorrow.
The Eau Rouge and Raidillon sections of the track, which have seen multiple severe incidents over the years, are areas of particular concern for Gasly. Notably, in recent years, numerous accidents—including those involving Lando Norris and the tragic death of 18-year-old Dilano van’t Hoff—have raised questions about safety. Changes have been made to the track’s run-off areas to increase safety, yet Gasly remains cautious about the effectiveness of these measures, especially under wet conditions.
He stated, “It’s very easy on dry, but in the wet, it becomes one of the most challenging corners of the season.” Gasly is clearly attuned to the balance between thrills and safety, as regulations evolve and driver capabilities change—highlighting the ongoing efforts in Formula 1 to enhance safety while preserving the excitement of racing.
Despite the somber undertones, Gasly is channeling his feelings into a source of strength, hoping to harness the emotions that accompany his time at Spa as motivation during the race. The resilience shown by Gasly and other drivers reflects a commitment to moving forward, while acknowledging the past.
This perspective not only encapsulates the spirit of racing but also emphasizes the importance of safety in motorsport, a sentiment that resonates deeply in the current landscape of Formula 1, where the community continuously reflects on the balance between speed and safety.