Cremona

The Cremona Circuit stands as one of Italy's newer motorsport venues, located in San Martino del Lago in the Lombardy region, approximately 26 kilometers from the city of Cremona. This racing facility opened on July 7, 2011, initially under the name Circuito di San Martino del Lago before adopting its current name in 2015. The circuit was born from the vision of brothers Marzio and Alessandro Canevarolo, who developed the concept in the early 2000s, with track designer Jarno Zaffelli creating the layout.

Track Layout and Technical Specifications

The main circuit features a challenging anti-clockwise layout that can be configured in three different arrangements. Following recent modifications in 2024, the track now measures 3.768 kilometers (2.341 miles), an increase from its original 3.450 kilometers when first constructed. The track width remains consistent at 12 meters throughout, providing ample space for racing maneuvers. Drivers and riders face 13 turns in total, comprising 6 right-hand and 7 left-hand corners. The circuit includes a lengthy straight section extending almost one kilometer, allowing vehicles to reach high speeds before entering technical sectors. The track surface is hard and the elevation profile is relatively flat, giving the circuit its distinctive character.

Circuit Development

Since its opening, the Cremona Circuit has undergone several important changes. The first major modification came in 2014 when a gravel section was added to the infield to accommodate the Supermoto World Championship. Between 2021 and 2023, the track length was extended to 3.702 kilometers, and further extensions in 2024 brought it to its current length. These improvements were part of a €4 million renovation project aimed at bringing the facility up to international racing standards. The circuit now holds an FIA Grade B classification, making it suitable for hosting major motorsport events. In addition to the main track, a separate karting circuit measuring 1,210 meters with 16 turns was created in 2015 and updated in 2019.

Racing History and Events

The Cremona Circuit initially gained popularity as a testing venue and for track days organized by local motor clubs. Its profile increased significantly after the nearby Autodromo di Franciacorta was purchased by Porsche and converted into an Experience Center. The track's international debut came with the Supermoto World Championship in 2014. From 2021, the circuit began hosting the Alpe Adria International Motorcycle Championship, followed by the Trofei MotoEstate and Coppa Italia Velocità from 2022. The most significant development in the circuit's history came in 2024, when it secured a five-year contract to host the World Superbike Championship (WorldSBK). The inaugural WorldSBK event at Cremona, officially named the Acerbis Italian Round, marked the circuit's arrival on the global motorsport stage.

Circuit Features and Facilities

The Cremona Circuit offers a complete racing experience with its mix of fast, sweeping corners and slower technical sections. Long-radius turns demand excellent traction and careful tire management from competitors. Safety remains a priority with wide escape routes throughout the track. The facility includes two large paddocks equipped with electric charging stations, a medical center, an indoor refreshment area, and a workshop zone. Spectators can enjoy races from terraces with panoramic views of the action, and the venue can accommodate approximately 20,000 visitors. A commercial and educational building on site serves multiple purposes for event organizers and participants. The circuit has become particularly popular for testing among Italian racers and Superbike teams, cementing its place in Italy's motorsport landscape.