F1 Belgian GP: Top four drivers who won their first-ever race at Spa-Francorchamps circuit

This circuit has been a fan favourite thanks in part due to its high-speed corners and treacherous weather conditions

Ever since its introduction in 1950, the Belgian GP has been a fan favourite thanks in part due to its high-speed corners and treacherous weather conditions. And over the years, this iconic track has witnessed numerous unforgettable moments, with some drivers achieving their first-ever Formula 1 race victories here. Now, let’s take a look at the four drivers who won their first race at Spa.

4. Peter Collins - 1956 Belgian Grand Prix

Peter Collins, driving for Ferrari at the time, witnessed a fairytale-like moment at the 1956 Belgian GP when his teammate and five-time World Champion, Juan Manuel Fangio, retired due to a broken steering arm. Seizing the opportunity, Collins displayed his racing skills and led to a memorable one-two finish, with Eugenio Castellotti taking the second spot on the podium.

3. Jim Clark - 1962 Belgian Grand Prix

For longtime fans of the sport, Jim Clark is no stranger, having won two world championships in 1963 and 1965. However, his first Formula 1 victory came in 1962, when driving for Lotus, Clark showcased his racing prowess by starting from a seemingly disadvantageous eighth position on the grid and then unleashed his brilliance on the first lap, overtaking Graham Hill and Phil Hill. On lap 3, he executed another daring manoeuvre to claim the lead from Willy Mairesse and finished a staggering 44 seconds ahead of his closest competitor, Graham Hill.

2. Michael Schumacher - 1992 Belgian Grand Prix

Widely considered the best driver to have ever graced the circuit, Michael Schumacher achieved his first win at the 1992 Belgian GP while driving for Benetton-Ford. The German showcased his wet-weather mastery by overtaking both Nigel Mansell and Ayrton Senna on the first lap. As the rain poured down, Schumacher’s skill and confidence shone brightly as he pulled away from the rest of the field and finished 39 seconds ahead of Mansell.

1. Charles Leclerc - 2019 Belgian Grand Prix

Possibly one of the most talented drivers on the circuit and a potential future world champion, Charles Leclerc secured his first win at the 2019 Belgian GP while driving for Ferrari. Starting from pole position, Leclerc led the race but faced relentless pressure from Lewis Hamilton as the laps ticked down. However, the young Monegasque driver held his nerve and fended off Hamilton’s challenge to become the 108th different winner in Formula 1 history.