Stroll still the odd man out when it comes to Spa

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It's one of Formula 1's most legendary circuits, and includes one of motorsport's most daunting corners, but Spa still doesn't get the thumbs up from Williams' Lance Stroll.

Granted, Spa-Francorchamps' name and fame was built mainly on the old Ardennes track, a massively fast and intimidating layout that separated the men from the boys, and often did in a terminal way.

Still, the circuit's modern version - the longest on the F1 calendar at over seven kilometers - retains its link with legend and offers something of a right of passage to drivers. Except in the eyes of Lance Stroll.

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"I have never really been a huge fan of this track as it has never clicked for me, although I appreciate that many drivers do love it," says the Canadian who will almost be racing on home turf this weekend.

"However, it is my second home race, as my mother was born in Belgium, so it does have a special meaning for me.

"It is a long lap with some amazing sections and the weather can play an important part - it can change in a second with rain on one side of the circuit and the other side dry, and then anything can happen.

"It also has a lot of history and I know the fans always enjoy it, whatever the weather!"

One may be inclined to forgive the 19-year-old's irreverent opinion of Spa as after all, who would look forward to running flat-out through Eau Rouge, Pouhon or Blanchimont at the wheel of an unstable Williams?

Perhaps he'll appreciate it more in a Force India...

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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.