Formula One Racing Grand Prix Circuits

Formula One racing evolved from early European Grand Prix racing. These early races here held on public streets and some of the current Grand Prix races continue to be held on them. Due to safety concerns associated with street racing, most Formula One racing events are held on circuits designed to meet the specific high performance demands of Formula One racecars.

The number of Grand Prix held each year can vary. Most of the traditional venue locations remain on the schedule year after year. However, new circuits are built and added to the schedule each year, allowing Formula One racing to expand into new international markets. As a result, the season takes drivers on a tour of well-known circuits as well as exciting new locations.

At the start of Formula One racing all of the races, except for the one race in the United States, were held in Europe. Over the years the popularity of the sport has led to the addition of circuits located around the world. In 1953 the first South American Grand Prix was held. It was followed by the addition of the African World Championship race in 1958. The 2007 season consists of 17 races, only 8 of which will be held in Europe. Formula One racing Grand Prix are now held in Europe, Asia, Australia, North American and South America.

The best know and most loved of all Grand Prix circuits is the Monaco Grand Prix in Monte Carlo. World Championship Formula One racing has been at home on the Monte Carlo circuit since 1955. The Monte Carlo circuit has changed very little over the years. The most major change occurred in 2004 when a new pit complex was added and changes were made to increase the number of spectators that could be accommodated.

The Monaco Grand Prix is the race that all Formula One racing drivers hope to win. The Monte Carlo circuit demands the best from each driver. It is a challenging and dangerous circuit. The Monaco Grand Prix separates the good from the great in Formula One racing and winners are considered among the best in Formula One racing history.

In the United States, Formula One racing is held at the Indianapolis International Speedway, nicknamed The Brickyard. Between 1950 and 1960 the Indy 500 was a World Championship round in Formula One racing. After 1960 the event was no longer part of the championship series but Formula One racers continued to participate. Indianapolis again became host of a Formula One World Championship circuit in 2000 after a new infield racing course was built. Formula One racing is growing in popularity in the United States and the circuit at Indianapolis International Speedway has contributed to the fan growth.

Many of the newer Formula One racing circuits have been designed by Hermann Tilke. The designs developed for newer circuits meet a higher safety standard than older circuits while providing access to larger audiences. Critics argue that the circuits have lost some of the character and challenges that made them popular but concede that safety is a top priority.

No matter where in the world they are located, Formula One racing Grand Prix are exciting events that test the skills of the drivers and the quality of the equipment engineering.