Spa reveals construction of new Raidillon grandstand

©Spa-Francorchamps

F1 fans attending next summer's Belgian Grand Prix will have an opportunity to enjoy the action from a remarkable vantage point at Spa's famous Raidillon.

The circuit has released the first pictures of the massive grandstand of a capacity of 4,600 spectators that is under construction at the track's historic corner and that will offer public seating as well as hospitality suites.

Spectators will be able to watch F1 cars rushing down towards Eau Rouge before enjoying a plunging view of the daunting and spectacular uphill run up the hill.

Raidillon's transformation which is part of Spa's infrastructure and track changes includes a significant widening of the run-off area in a bid to improve the safety of the legendary corner that has caused a lot of controversy in the past few years.

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.