• Iconic race set to mark 75th edition on 29 June – 2 July
• Full timetable revealed for busy week in the Ardennes
• Packed line-up includes support action and wealth of off-track entertainment
Tickets for the 2023 CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa are now on general sale, launching the countdown to the 75th running of the Belgian endurance classic on 29 June - 2 July.
Acknowledged as the pinnacle of global GT racing, the twice-around-the clock contest brings the world’s foremost teams and drivers to the Belgian Ardennes to compete for a roll call of prestigious automotive manufacturers. Recent editions have seen grids of more than 60 cars tackle the daunting 7km circuit, producing the most competitive racing in the event's long history.
There is plenty to look forward to in 2023, including new machinery from leading marques Ferrari, Porsche and Lamborghini. The venue can also offer something different thanks to a newly constructed grandstand overlooking the endurance pit lane, which will provide fans with a spectacular view of the high-speed dash from La Source to Eau Rouge.
Though this year’s event will run a month earlier than previous editions, race week in the Ardennes follows a familiar schedule. It begins at 15:00 CEST on Tuesday 27 June with the Bronze Test, while Wednesday’s focus will be the traditional parade to Spa city centre, which remains free to attend.
The action ramps up on Thursday with a 90-minute Free Practice at 11:20, followed by a one-hour Pre-Qualifying session at 18:10. This sets the stage for the main Qualifying at 21:20, which decides the 20 Super Pole contenders and establishes the starting order for the remainder of the grid, while the day concludes with Night Practice at 23:00.
Friday evening’s action begins at 19:55 with a 30-minute warm-up open to the full field. Then, at 20:35, the Super Pole session will see the fastest 20 cars from Qualifying run in reverse order to stake their claim for the coveted pole position. Finally, the 75th edition of the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa will begin at 16:30 CEST on Saturday 1 July, concluding at the same time on Sunday.
Meanwhile, a packed schedule of support races will include the brand-new McLaren Trophy Europe and the firmly established Lamborghini Super Trofeo, a combined GT4 European Series and GT4 Scandinavia grid, and Formula Regional European Championship by Alpine. In a new addition sure to please spectators, GT1 Sports Club by Curbstone will give some truly exotic hyper-sports cars a chance to stretch their legs on the 7km circuit, while the virtual world will be represented by the Fanatec Esports GT Pro Series.
As ever, the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa will provide fans with a wealth of off-track entertainment. The paddock will be alive with activity on Thursday and Friday evening, including world-first presentations from leading automotive manufacturers, the Pirelli Experience, and the esports-focussed Fanatec Arena. Pit walks will also be offered during the evening hours, while pit stop simulations will provide fans with a unique look at this crucial aspect of the competition.
What's more, attendees can enjoy the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa Fan Zone at the bottom of Raidillon. With the Monster activation, merchandise, food and drink stands and children's entertainment, the Fan Zone will provide something for all ages to enjoy. Last but not least, the traditional Saturday night music concert will keep the party going through the night. The full line-up is set to be confirmed in late February.
A range of ticket options are available. These include access for Thursday and Friday only, which will allow fans to enjoy extensive practice and qualifying running, as well as support race action. A Sunday ticket will provide access around the circuit and to grandstands, plus paddock access, for the second half of the contest.
For those wishing to experience the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa in full, a General Entrance ticket covers Thursday through Sunday and allows access around the circuit and to grandstands, the Fan Village and the Saturday night music concert. For an even more immersive experience, fans can choose a General Entrance + Paddock ticket, which adds access to the bustling CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa paddock.
The headline race of Fanatec GT World Challenge Europe Powered by AWS and Intercontinental GT Challenge Powered by Pirelli, the CrowdStrike 24 Hours of Spa traces its rich history back to 1924. With 2023 tickets now on sale, fans can book their place at what promises to be a truly spectacular 75th edition.
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