Valencia

Circuit Ricardo Tormo stands as one of Spain's premier motorsport venues. Located in Cheste, approximately 20 kilometers from Valencia city in eastern Spain, this modern racing facility has become an iconic destination for racing enthusiasts. The circuit represents a significant investment in motorsport infrastructure by the Valencian Community government, which built the track in 1999.

History and Naming

The circuit opened officially on September 19, 1999. It bears the name of Ricardo Tormo, a celebrated Spanish motorcycle racer from Valencia who won two 50cc world championships in 1978 and 1981. The government named the circuit in his honor after his death from leukemia in 1998. The official designation is "Circuit de la Comunitat Valenciana Ricardo Tormo," though many simply call it Circuit de Valencia.

Technical Specifications

The track measures 4.005 kilometers (2.489 miles) in length and features 14 turns - 5 right and 9 left. Drivers and riders race in an anti-clockwise direction around the circuit. The main straight extends 876 meters, offering excellent overtaking opportunities. The circuit holds an FIA Grade 1 classification, which permits it to host Formula One events and testing sessions. The venue can accommodate 165,000 spectators, with 125,000 seated positions in the grandstands.

Design and Layout

What sets Circuit Ricardo Tormo apart is its unique "stadium" design concept. Engineers designed the track so spectators can see the entire circuit from almost any seat in the grandstands. This creates an exceptional viewing experience rarely found at other motorsport venues. The layout combines slow and medium-speed corners with subtle elevation changes, demanding precision, agility, and power from competitors. The circuit includes modern pit facilities, media centers, hospitality areas, and additional tracks for various racing activities, including a dedicated karting circuit.

Racing Heritage

Since its opening, the circuit has hosted the Valencian Community Motorcycle Grand Prix each year, traditionally serving as the final race of the MotoGP season. This event creates dramatic championship conclusions and memorable racing moments. Beyond MotoGP, the track has welcomed numerous prestigious series including World Superbike Championship (2000-2010), FIA GT Championship, World Touring Car Championship (2005-2012), DTM (2010-2012), GP2 Series, and Formula E, which used a modified layout for a one-off event in 2021. The circuit also hosts the NASCAR Euro Series, Ferrari Challenge Europe, and national championships.

Notable Features

The circuit's design places civil buildings and parking outside the track layout, enabling various circuit configurations for different events. Spanish riders have achieved significant success at this home venue, adding to its reputation in motorcycle racing. The track's location offers easy access, sitting just 20 kilometers from Valencia city and only 5 kilometers from Manises International Airport. In 2021, officials upgraded the circuit to full FIA Grade 1 status, expanding its potential to host top-tier international automobile racing events alongside its established motorcycle racing calendar.