The thrill of watching races at different race tracks is always exciting. Racing tracks are built to test both the racer’s skill and the vehicle’s capabilities. The difficulty of the race and the strategic decision made by the crew differs with different racetracks. In today’s article, we will look at famous racetracks around the world.
1. Nürburgring (Germany)
The 5 km Nürburgring racing track
The Nürburgring racetrack has been the heart of vehicle testing for decades. Moreover, petrolheads and journalists use it frequently to test some of the hottest cars in the automobile market. Most supercars in the market have tried for a Nürburgring lap record and the best ones still hold the record for their super-fast laps.
This track is 21-km long, with 154 corners that can put the skills of all elite racers to the test. The 5.14 km Grand Prix track GP-Strecke, is used for racing purposes.
Located in the city of Nurburg, Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany, this circuit consists of a high-priced track built-in 1984, as well as the old “northern cycle path” built in the 1920s on the Eiffel mountain. The 20.8km circuit has an elevation gain of over 300m – “The Green Hell”. The racecourse complex is used for all major world racing events and has a capacity of 150,000 spectators.
Fun Fact: The Porsche 911 GT2 RS Manthey holds the record for the fastest production car to lap the Nurburgring with a lap time of 6:43.30. The record-holder was fitted with a Manthey Performance kit which included brake, chassis, and aero upgrade along with lightweight magnesium wheels from the Weissach Package.
2. Monza (Italy)
The Autodromo Nazionale Monza is one of the oldest and most famous racetracks in the history of Formula 1. Long straights and tight chicanes are widely used in this circuit. In comparison, it is the fastest track and has the highest average speed, earning it the title of “The Temple of Speed.” The unique track layout and jam-packed grandstands full of Tifosi surely make the Italian Grand Prix a memorable occasion.
Moreover, built-in 1922, Monza’s biggest event is the F1 Grand Prix. The Italian Grand Prix has been held on this circuit except for the year 1980. Furthermore, the Monza has had its shares of accidents with over 52 drivers and 35 spectators losing their lives. In fact, this has resulted in improved track layouts and better safety measures.
3. Silverstone (United Kingdom)
This track is also known as the home of British motorsport. In fact, The first-ever Formula 1 Grand Prix race was held in 1950 at Silverstone Circuit. Silverstone is the UK’s most famous racetracks with a few of the best and most famous corners in F1 such as Copse and the Maggotts /Becketts complex.
Moreover, the Silverstone circuit is on the site of a World War II Royal Air Force bomber station. However, the current layout of the track differs from the initial design still, it remains one of the old school racetracks in the competition. Many other cups and competitions including the FIA WEC and BTCC are held in Silverstone.
5. Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium)
This track hosts the Belgian Grand Prix. Situated in the Ardennes, The SPA has a high heritage of F1 and motorsports. The renowned corners and accelerating stretches make this track a driver favourite. Hilly elevations and twisted character, close to the town of Francorchamps make the SPA equally risky as the Nürburgring and Le Mans circuits.
The Eau Rouge, one of F1’s most thrilling corners, is known for its blind crest, speed and almost 12 storeys high elevation (highest in Formula One). Moreover, SPA is infamous for the number of accidents and lives it claimed. The unpredictable weather and wet and dry tracks make this circuit even riskier.
6. Monaco
This street track in the Principality of Monaco has gone through minimal changes since its debut on the F1 calendar in 1950. However, the drivers still find it difficult to master this circuit. Quick corners, tight hairpins, and barriers surrounding surely complicate the circuit. The circuit is used twice a year to host the F1 and Formula E championships. The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the fan favourites and F1’s main top event.
Also Read:
