[Interview] We are flying to Hasselt – Zolder for Round 4 -Are you ready?

“As a team we are holding together really strong with no foreseeable issues” ~Jason Bagley

“its the first track I actually like so I hope it goes well, I feel like I can definitely do better then P10, I think I’m pretty consistent here, I have heard that people have struggled with the curbs and bumps, I’ve had no issues so far (in my whole 3 valid laps), ill do more laps tomorrow and with the 30-ish mins after the 4hrs, its a very busy weekend for me so I need to find time elsewhere to practise.” ~Tyler Schlebusch

“Not good” ~Michal Sulc

“Pace is good, setup is good, unless I die in the chicane all is good in the hood.” ~A. E. Gavars

“[We are] as prepared as for suzuka, and even more hungry for points after achieving a solid finish in the previous race” ~Simon Durkac

“Hungry and motivated for a good result” ~James Flannagan

“Feelin ready, Evan made a really good setup and I like the track even we drive here for the first time.” ~Lukas Gruber

“Absolutely bad” ~Daniele Tallarino

I have been practicing a lot, i still think that i have the pace for everything, but do i have the 0 incidents in my hands? no. absolutly not. i will do incidents, specifically here at zolder, with high curbs and hard turns, its a pretty straight curcuit, slipstream will dictate the winner, but obviusly really good pace is needed. i have been helped by kudlis so we will see what happens, as always, aiming for a podium” ~Gioele Frisa

“Unluckly I will not atted the race, this week. Too busy and I had almost no time to try the track. I will race directly in Monza” ~Ciro Bruscino

“Suzuka has been a mess, but since Ciro was out of quali and I didn’t put proper time in the learning of the circuit, we knew things could quickly go south, so there’s no actual disappointment. In Zolder I will be on my own since both Ciro nor Silviu won’t be able to attend. Score points is our team aim, but it’s gonna be challenging: Every other driver in the grid is tenacious, and this time I’m sure this won’t change.” ~Claudio Diana

The History of Circuit Zolder: Belgium’s Iconic Racing Venue

Circuit Zolder, officially known as Circuit Terlaemen, is one of Belgium’s most historic motorsport venues. Located in Heusden-Zolder, the track has played a significant role in European racing history and continues to be a key fixture in motorsport and cycling events.

Origins and Early Years

The Circuit Zolder was inaugurated in 1963, designed to be a challenging and technical track that would test drivers and teams alike. The circuit initially spanned 4.011 km (2.49 miles) and quickly gained recognition as a premier racing venue in Belgium. With its mix of fast straights, sharp corners, and elevation changes, it became a favorite among drivers and spectators.

Formula 1 Era (1973–1984)

Zolder’s most famous era came when it hosted the Belgian Grand Prix for ten editions between 1973 and 1984. The track provided intense racing action, but it was also marred by tragedy. One of the darkest moments in Formula 1 history occurred during the 1982 Belgian Grand Prix weekend when Gilles Villeneuve, one of the sport’s most beloved drivers, lost his life in a crash during qualifying. This tragic incident remains one of the most well-remembered moments in Zolder’s history.

After the 1984 event, Formula 1 permanently moved the Belgian Grand Prix to Spa-Francorchamps, a longer and more modernized track, leaving Zolder to host other high-profile motorsport events.

Post-F1 and the Evolution of Zolder

Although Formula 1 left the circuit, Zolder remained a significant venue for motorsport. Over the years, it has hosted a variety of prestigious events, including:

DTM (Deutsche Tourenwagen Masters) – The premier German touring car series raced at Zolder multiple times, adding to its international reputation.
FIA GT Championship – Zolder became an important stop for GT racing, with endurance events testing the limits of drivers and machines.
24 Hours of Zolder – Belgium’s answer to endurance racing, this event has become a staple of the circuit, bringing together top GT and touring car teams.
FIA WTCR (World Touring Car Cup) – Showcasing some of the best touring car racing in the world.

Modern Uses and Cycling Events

Zolder is not only a motorsport venue; it has also become a major hub for cycling. The circuit has hosted UCI Road and Cyclocross World Championships, solidifying its place in the broader sports world. Additionally, it remains a popular testing and track day venue for amateur racers and enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Circuit Zolder’s legacy is one of resilience, evolution, and versatility. From hosting the Belgian Grand Prix to becoming a premier location for endurance racing and cycling, it has remained an important part of Belgium’s motorsport culture. With its technical layout and historical significance, Circuit Zolder continues to attract motorsport fans and athletes from around the world, ensuring its place in racing history for years to come.