The quiet beauty of the Ardennes forest is briefly interrupted by the rhythmic hum of diesel engines, the clatter of toolboxes, and the low rumble of vintage race cars coming to life. It’s the day before the Spa Classic by Peter Auto officially begins, and while no green flag has yet waved, Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is already pulsing with energy.
Today, the paddock is a hive of activity. Historic racing teams from across Europe and beyond are rolling in, their transporters lining the paddock in neat rows. Teams unload precious cargo: Ford GT40s, Porsche 962s, Jaguar E-Types, BMW CSLs, and the unmistakable curves of Lola T70s, to name just a few of the historic race cars that will be the main actors of the coming days. Each car tells a story — of Le Mans glory, of bygone Grand Prix battles, of endurance legends reborn. It’s a time warp for motorsport fans.
Mechanics, engineers, and drivers are deep into preparations. Open garages reveal a fascinating mix of eras: carburetors and laptops coexist, as modern telemetry meets mechanical purity. Teams are setting up awnings, calibrating tire pressures, and meticulously checking every component. Every car, some over 60 years old, must be ready to perform at near-race speeds across Spa’s daunting corners: Eau Rouge, Blanchimont, and La Source.
There’s a distinct camaraderie in the air. Many of these teams see each other throughout the historic racing calendar. Despite fierce competition on track, there’s a shared passion that keeps spirits high. Laughter and coffee are passed around as frequently as torque wrenches and torque specs. Some early birds are beginning to trickle into the paddock area. Spa Classic is unique in its accessibility. Enthusiasts stroll freely between cars and drivers, snapping photos and chatting with owners. For many, this day — unfiltered, raw, behind the scenes — is just as special as race day.
At the moment of writing, not all cars and teams had arrived yet. The roaring sound of an ongoing track day, mainly with modern Porsches on the circuit. The modern cars are a stark contrast to the classic sports cars that will rule the track starting tomorrow
Tomorrow, the Spa Classic by Peter Auto begins in earnest. But today was a different kind of magic — a glimpse behind the curtain, where history is not just remembered, but rebuilt and made ready to roar once again.
Pictures copyright Tim Havermans
