Misano

The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli stands as one of Italy's premier racing venues, located in Misano Adriatico near the Adriatic coast in the Emilia-Romagna region. Since opening in 1972, this circuit has become a cornerstone of European motorsport, particularly for motorcycle racing. Originally known as Circuito Internazionale Santa Monica, the track received its current name in 2011 to honor Marco Simoncelli, an Italian MotoGP rider who died during the Malaysian Grand Prix that year.

Circuit Evolution and Development

The Misano circuit began as a 3.488 km track in 1972. Major renovations occurred in 1993, extending the circuit to 4.064 km. The most significant change came in 2007 when the racing direction switched from counter-clockwise to clockwise, and the track reached its current length of 4.226 km. These modifications improved safety standards and racing quality. The facility now features modern amenities, including full lighting for night races, a test track measuring 900 meters, and a configurable flat track.

Technical Specifications

The Grand Prix circuit stretches 4.226 km (2.626 miles) with a consistent width of 14 meters. It contains 16 turns—10 right-handed and 6 left-handed—creating a balanced challenge for drivers. The longest straight measures 530 meters, offering crucial overtaking opportunities. The track holds FIA Grade 2 and FIM Grade A certifications, confirming its high safety and quality standards. The circuit can accommodate up to 100,000 spectators, making it suitable for major international events.

Track Characteristics

Misano presents drivers with a mix of technical sections and high-speed straights on mostly flat terrain. The smooth tarmac provides excellent grip, while subtle elevation changes add complexity to corners like Quercia (Turn 8) and Curvone (Turn 10). The circuit demands precise braking and acceleration control, especially in its tighter sections. The coastal location means weather conditions can change quickly, affecting track temperature and grip levels throughout race weekends.

Racing History

The circuit first hosted a motorcycle World Championship race in 1980. It remained a regular venue until 1993, when Wayne Rainey suffered a career-ending injury during the Italian Grand Prix. MotoGP returned to Misano in 2007 with the San Marino and Rimini Riviera Grand Prix, which has become an annual fixture. The track has also hosted the Superbike World Championship, GT World Challenge Europe, and the European Truck Racing Championship. In 2024, Formula E made its debut at Misano on a modified 3.381 km layout with 14 turns.

Regional Significance

Misano sits in the heart of Italy's Motor Valley, a region famous for its racing heritage and automotive industry. The circuit serves as more than a racing venue—it functions as an FMI (Italian Motorcycling Federation) federal technical center for driver training and offers safe driving courses for the public. Its proximity to popular tourist destinations like Rimini, Riccione, and Cattolica makes it an economic driver for the region, bringing motorsport enthusiasts to the Adriatic coast year-round.