Spa-Francorchamps mourns death of CEO Nathalie Maillet

Belgian Grand Prix

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Spa-Francorchamps mourns death of CEO Maillet

Maillet is believed to have been killed as part of a murder-suicide

Ewan Gale

Sunday 15 August 2021 17:05

Spa-Francorchamps chief executive officer Nathalie Maillet has died in what is reported to be a murder-suicide.

Maillet, who was appointed CEO at the host venue of the Belgian Grand Prix in 2016, was found at her home in Luxembourg alongside the bodies of two others, one believed to be her husband.

“According to the first information received, the male individual used his weapon on the two women, who included his wife, causing their deaths, before taking his own life,” the Office of the Public Prosecutor of Luxembourg said in a statement.

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The circuit released its own statement mourning the passing of the 51-year-old, reading: "It is with great sadness that the team of the Spa-Francorchamps circuit have been informed of the death of Nathalie Maillet, CEO.

"On this very sad day, the whole staff wish to present their most sincere condolences to Nathalie's family and friends. The circuit, but also motor racing, has lost today a passionate woman, strong in her convictions and always looking to the future."

Melchior Wathelet, chairman of the board of directors of the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, added: "My thoughts are with Nathalie's family, her parents, her loved ones and her teams.

"I know how much this news will upset our teams and I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the entire circuit team on behalf of the entire board.

"Today, we are losing a highly respected lady, a true leader who will be greatly missed. Nathalie had become the face of the circuit, she embodied the passion for racing that we all share.”

The FIA added its condolences in a statement that read: "The FIA has been saddened to learn of the tragic death of Nathalie Maillet.

"Nathalie was the chief executive officer at Circuit of Spa-Francorchamps since 2016 during which time she oversaw major development of the iconic race track which hosts a number of FIA championships.

"On behalf of the entire motorsport community, we wish to extend our condolences to her family and friends."