Nine Times at Spa
While most sports can be tried and experienced firsthand, driving a racing car is reserved for very few. Racing is usually seen from a distance, too far to truly understand what it means to drive a car at the limit.
Spa-Francorchamps is a legendary Belgian circuit with a history stretching back to the 1930s. It hosts major events, including the Belgian Formula 1 Grand Prix. But once a year, in late September, it becomes something else entirely. The circuit turns into a portal back in time: the Spa Six Hours.
It is the only place where you can stand in a dark, rain-soaked pit lane at nine o’clock in the evening and watch a driver change unfold right in front of you. Where you can see someone climb into a loud, fire-spitting machine like a Ford GT40 and roar away from a narrow, old pit lane—exactly as they did sixty years ago, in a time when motorsport felt closer to its fans and easier to understand.
The photographs are also available on Blurb as Premium Magazine.
from my 9 visits to the Spa Six Hours race, between 2014 and 2024
In the dark, the pit lane brings competition between teams to another level.
Spa Six Hours 2017
Endurance races can be won or lost in the pit lane.
Spa Six Hours 2014
Even though the race lasts six hours, pit stops must be as quick as possible. Everyone knows what to do to minimise time lost in the pit lane.
Spa Six Hours 2021
The driver swap is also an opportunity to carry out all necessary checks.
Spa Six Hours 2014
Historic racing is remarkably democratic and provides a unique opportunity for small teams with limited resources
Spa Six Hours 2024
Drivers are always eager to drive, no matter their age or experience.
Spa Six Hours 2017
Mechanics get little rest. Every hour goes into working on the car.
Spa Six Hours 2024
A racing clutch offers very little slip, making drive-away difficult. The team assists to ensure the engine does not stall.
Spa Six Hours 2014
Racing cars are fragile. Pushing them to the limit without crossing it is the essence of racing.
Spa Six Hours 2017
At times, the driver can do nothing but watch and hope for the best.
Spa Six Hours 2023