Singapore Grand Prix 2019 and other racing destinations in history
The Formula One (F1) Grand Prix is the highest class of single-seater auto racing in the world. It is sanctioned by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile, which is owned by the Formula One Group. It has been hosting races on all parts of the globe since its inaugural season in 1950. Since then, 69 circuits hosted at least one Grand Prix motor race, with some countries hosting the event on multiple occasions. This year’s tournament will be held in Singapore, from 20 to 22. Now, the Lion City isn’t the only outstanding destination to host the event in its history. Below are some of the best destinations in the world where the Grand Prix has taken place.
1. Suzuka International Racing Course
Location: Suzuka, Japan
We kick things off to Japan, whose thriving automotive technology is one of the best in the world. This country has hosted one of the most enjoyable to watch racing circuits in F1 history in Suzuka. The city is both a historic circuit and a modern marvel of F1 track engineering. The idea behind the event came about when Honda founder Soichiro Honda and Dutch race track designer John “Hans” Hugenholtz teamed up to bring a modern F1 circuit to Japan. Today, F1 drivers love racing in the Suzuka International Racing Course. Its unique figure 8 layout is what makes the course stand out, and though it has undergone changes over the years, it still remains to be one of the top picks among drivers. Unsurprisingly, it is also one of the most used tracks in racing video games.
2. Circuit Gilles De Villeneuve
Location: Montreal, Canada
In North America, Circuit Gilles de Villeneuve inMontreal, Quebec is your closest bet to experience Grand Prix. Though it may seem like a bad thing for an F1 race to take place at simple racing circuits, the site proves to be an exception. The Gilles de Villeneuve was built in 1978 and it has drawn a lot of staying power since, due to the fact that the simplicity in its design produces watchable races. What makes this barebones thrilling is that the circuit can be deceptive. There are walls and barriers that catches even the world’s best drivers off guard. In fact, one of the circuit’s walls has been nicknamed the “Wall of Champions” due to the number of drivers it has attracted and hosted.
3. Autodromo Nazionale Monza
Location: Monza, Italy
Of course we can’t talk about racing destinations without mentioning the country represented by most popular sports car brand in the world: Italy. One of F1’s top engine suppliers is the Italian company Ferrari. Italy also happens to have one of the best circuits in the world in Monza, called the Autodromo Nazionale Monza. The track site is a gem in the eyes of F1 fans; it is also one of the most historical, as it was built in 1922. Autodromo Nazionale Monza is also arguably the most popular, as it has hosted the most Grand Prix events. For drivers, a thrilling factor that keeps them drawn to this Italian race track is the beauty of both the Curva Parabolica and the Curve di Lesmo.
4. Spa-Francorchamps
Location: Stavelot, Belgium
Belgium is not only known for its grand architecture and waffles. Many travelers visit the country to have an experience of witnessing an F1 race the Spa-Francorchamps. The circuit, which has one of the world’s most challenging race track layouts, held its first Grand Prix in 1925. Racers would pass characteristic hills, twists, and turns that every race here a nail-biter. Many fans have noted to love to watch their favourite drivers taking corners at speeds of 150 mph and above. Of course, the French track comes with a dark side; due to its ultra challenging design, the track suffers some of the most notorious accidents in F1 history. The steepest and sharpest parts of the circuit are Masta Kink, one-two corner-hairpin of the Eau Rouge, and Raidillon.
5. Circuit de Monaco
Location: Monaco
A drone shot around Monaco is enough to tell you why it is one of the most beautiful places to hold a Grand Prix. As you may have noticed in movies, this small country is no stranger to speed. Monte Carlo has been featured in racing movies many times, most notably Fast and the Furious and Disney Pixar’s Cars 2. When it comes to F1, The Circuit de Monaco has been a historical fixture and a long-standing symbol of sophisticated street racing. Safety is often a major issue though, as tracks and layouts are difficult to update. But in spite of this consistent obstacle, the site manages to continue hosting races over the years, due to the Grand Prix’s huge draw.
Thinking to visit Singapore soon to witness your favourite Formula One (F1) racers getting all fast and furious? Send Fayyaz Travels a request today to make your F1-themed vacation a reality!
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