In the vaulted cellars of the historic Stavelot Abbey—just a few kilometers from the legendary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps—a remarkable new permanent exhibition has been inaugurated. Dedicated to the racing legacy of the Ickx family, the museum exhibit was unveiled in the presence of Vanina and Larissa Ickx, shining a spotlight on the life and career of one of motorsport’s most revered figures: Jacky Ickx.
More Than 100 Pieces from a Storied Career
Thanks to a private collector and devoted fan of the Ickx family, visitors can now admire a rare collection of over 100 authentic objects. This immersive journey spans six decades of motorsport history, including:
- Original race suits
- Iconic trophies
- Period posters and rare documents
- Personal mementos rich in emotional and historical significanc
Racing Meets Art: Larissa Ickx’s Tribute
In addition to mechanical treasures, the exhibition features artwork by Larissa Ickx, Jacky’s eldest daughter. Her paintings, deeply influenced by family memories and her father’s racing heritage, reflect the emotional depth behind the Ickx name.
“The places we’ve visited, the emotions we’ve shared, and the stories I’ve inherited—motorsport is in my blood and on my canvas.” — Larissa Ickx
Two Cars, Two Legends
At the heart of the exhibition are two standout vehicles:
Ensign N176 Formula 1
The car Jacky Ickx drove during his final full F1 season in 1976.
Porsche 911 Carrera 4S “Jacky Ickx Belgian Legend Edition”
Finished in deep helmet-blue, this is car #1 of only 75 produced for Ickx’s 75th birthday in 2020 and presented at the Concours d’Elegance of the Zoute GP in 2019 year. The car is registered in Monaco and officially tied to the legend himself.
A Helmet That Tells a Story
Perhaps the most moving item in the exhibition is a charred helmet worn by Jacky Ickx during the 1970 Spanish Grand Prix at Jarama. Trapped in a burning Ferrari, he narrowly survived. The blackened helmet stands as a powerful reminder of motorsport’s dangers—and a tribute to Ickx’s resilience.
“This helmet is more than memorabilia—it’s a symbol of courage and perseverance.” — Vanina Ickx
Spa-Francorchamps: Track of a Champion
Few drivers have had as intimate a connection with Spa-Francorchamps as Jacky Ickx:
- Winner of the 24 Hours of Spa (1966)
- Podium in the Belgian Grand Prix (1968)
- Lap record in the 1000 km of Spa (1973)
Vanina Ickx continued the legacy with her own highlights at Spa, including a class win and overall podium in 2000.
A Living Museum of Motorsport
The Circuit Museum of Spa-Francorchamps, operating since 1984, features more than 47 cars and 40 motorcycles—all on rotating display thanks to loans from private collectors. The ever-evolving collection brings over a century of motorsport history to life in a unique setting.
Why It Matters to Porsche Fans
Jacky Ickx is inseparably linked to Porsche’s racing DNA. With multiple Le Mans victories behind the wheel of Porsche prototypes like the 936 and 956, his legacy is carved into the brand’s motorsport heritage.
For Porsche enthusiasts, this exhibition is not only a tribute to Ickx—it’s a reminder of how personal courage and professional brilliance shaped Porsche’s golden era at Le Mans.
Planning to visit? Be sure to explore both the exhibition and the Spa circuit—a pilgrimage every motorsport lover should make. Visit the website of the Museum of Spa-Francorchamps to find out more.
Pictures copyright Tim Havermans
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