Ferrari driver on the features of the Spa track…

      Before the start of the Belgian weekend, Ferrari internal combustion engine engineer Roël Surbron, a Belgian, spoke about the characteristics of the circuit…

      Question: The Spa track is one of the most challenging for the powertrain. Can you tell us about these difficulties?

      Roël Surbron: The Spa circuit is the longest on the seasonal calendar — 7,004 meters. The most critical feature for the powertrain is two series of high-speed corners.

      Since the famous Eau Rouge and Raidillon turns are taken with the throttle fully pressed, the powertrain runs at full power for 23 seconds straight. That’s 1.8 km without lifting off the gas pedal! This long stretch begins after the slowest corner on the track, so it’s important to optimize the powertrain’s performance across the entire RPM range on all gears.

      Additionally, from Eau Rouge, the track ascends a steep incline of up to 14%. The turn and ascent place such a load on the powertrain that the car slows down despite having over 900 hp.

      The second long “straight” includes the high-speed Blanchimont corner, which is also taken with full throttle. This time, drivers keep their foot down for 20 seconds, covering 1.6 km. These sections are connected by a combination of high-speed corners and a slow chicane. It’s crucial to optimize energy and fuel consumption during long straights without sacrificing speed in the intermediate sections.

      Due to the circuit’s length, fuel consumption is high, and the ascents and descents make lap times sensitive to weight. It’s necessary to carefully calculate fuel usage and only fill with the needed amount so the car remains as light as possible.

      Question: The Ardennes track is known for unpredictable weather…

      Roël Surbron: You need to be prepared for everything at Spa. Rain and cold are as likely here as heat and sunshine. The track is especially demanding on the internal combustion engine in sunny, dry weather when it runs at full capacity. The total elevation change in a spa lap exceeds 100 meters, and atmospheric pressure variations can add extra stress to the turbocharger.

      The track is situated at an altitude of 461 meters above sea level, and low atmospheric pressure requires increasing the turbo speed — many components operate at the limit of their design capabilities.

      Finally, if it rains, the track’s character completely changes. Instead of raw engine power, handling and energy distribution become critical. The high-speed corners Eau Rouge and Blanchimont are no longer taken with the throttle fully open; smooth acceleration is required to maintain control on the slippery surface.