Circuito De Jerez

The Circuito de Jerez, officially known as Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto, stands as one of Spain's premier racing venues. Located near Jerez de la Frontera in the sunny Andalusia region, this track has played a significant role in motorsport history since its opening on December 8, 1985. The circuit sits approximately 90 kilometers south of Seville in Spain's famous sherry-producing region, combining rich cultural heritage with world-class racing facilities. The venue holds an FIA Grade 1 license, which certifies it can host all major international motorsport events, though it now focuses primarily on motorcycle racing.

Track Layout and Technical Details

The Jerez circuit extends 4.428 kilometers (2.751 miles) for car racing, featuring 15 turns across a clockwise layout. The motorcycle configuration measures slightly shorter at 4.423 kilometers (2.748 miles) and uses 13 turns. The track maintains a consistent width of 11 meters throughout, with the longest straight measuring 607 meters. This straight provides crucial overtaking opportunities during races. The layout tests riders and drivers with its mix of fast and tight corners, heavy braking zones, and demanding corner entry and exit points. Rear-tire management becomes critical during motorcycle races. Notable sections include the Senna Chicane added in 1994, Curva Aspar (Turn 8, renamed in 2010 after Jorge Martínez 'Aspar'), Curva Dani Pedrosa (Turn 6, renamed in May 2019), and Curva Lorenzo (the final corner, renamed in May 2013 after four-time World Champion Jorge Lorenzo).

Racing History and Major Events

Jerez hosted street races during the early 1960s, including the popular "Merced Trophy" motorcycle events, before the permanent circuit opened. The track gained international prominence by hosting the Formula One Spanish Grand Prix from 1986 to 1990 and the European Grand Prix in 1994 and 1997. The 1997 European Grand Prix remains particularly memorable, as Jacques Villeneuve secured the World Championship in a decisive battle with Michael Schumacher. Since 1989, the circuit has continuously hosted the Spanish Motorcycle Grand Prix, making 2026 its 40th consecutive year for this event. Jerez now serves as one of four MotoGP rounds held on Spanish soil annually. The venue also regularly hosts World Superbike Championship rounds, including the 2025 season finale.

Current Role and Testing Activities

Beyond major race weekends, Jerez functions as a highly sought-after winter testing venue for various motorsport categories. MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3, and Formula 4 teams regularly choose this circuit for development work, thanks to the region's consistently pleasant weather. The Andalusian climate provides over 3,200 hours of sunshine yearly. Recent testing in April 2026, following the Spanish MotoGP, saw Ducati, Aprilia, Honda, and Yamaha conducting extensive development programs. The 2025 calendar included the Spanish MotoGP, World Superbike Championship, FIM JuniorGP, and various national championships, alongside numerous official test sessions.

Circuit Features and Evolution

The facility includes a spacious 48,294 square meter paddock, 43 pits (each measuring 12×6 meters), and grandstands that accommodate between 125,000 and 250,000 spectators. Safety innovations include the pioneering Airfence system—soft-wall barriers filled with compressed air cells. The circuit added its iconic "UFO" structure above the start/finish straight in 2002. Major modifications occurred in 1992 when designers removed four corners to create the flowing right-hand Curva Sito Pons. The track underwent complete resurfacing in 2005, with continuous smaller modifications to run-off areas since then. In May 2018, the circuit received its current name to honor Ángel Nieto, the legendary Spanish motorcyclist who passed away in 2017. Visitors can explore the on-site motor museum showcasing historic racing machines and take guided tours of the facilities. Today, Circuito de Jerez-Ángel Nieto maintains its position as a cornerstone of motorcycle racing while preserving its rich motorsport heritage.