Silverstone, Suzuka and Spa are drivers' favourites

Formula One's growing calendar features 24 tracks and each has its challenges.

For drivers, some tracks are more acclaimed depending on layout, the thrill involved and their relative competitiveness.

Some circuits are relished for a qualifying lap, while others are better for side-by-side racing. A home circuit can make some sentimental, as might its history, or have a passionate fan base.

There are 16 permanent circuits and eight semi-permanent or temporary street-based tracks, where public roads are used. Among those, there are three that drivers typically acclaim - Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps (often referred to as Spa) in Belgium, Silverstone in England and Suzuka International Racing Course in Japan.

All three are historic, renowned for their high-speed corners and natural flow, where drivers can push cars to the limit of adhesion and where mistakes will bite.

"Spa has always been my favourite track, with its fast corners and lots of opportunities for overtaking," Red Bull's four-time world champion Max Verstappen said.

The sweeping circuit rises and falls 100m across its 7km lap.

The Eau Rouge/Raidillon complex, a left-right-left corner through which drivers plunge before rapidly ascending, is revered as one of the most classic sections on any racetrack.