The Best Formula One Racetracks in the World

These are the best and most famous Formula One racetracks in the world.
The Best Formula One Racetracks in the World

Last update: 29 November, 2019

There are dozens of Formula One racetracks that have hosted competitions. However, only some of them are actually unique. Since its creation in 1950, Formula One is the ultimate competition for racing at an international level. Continue reading to discover the best Formula One racetracks currently scheduled on the calendar.   

Which are the best Formula One racetracks in the world?

So far they’ve been 71 racetracks that host Formula One races. The very first was Silverstone in the UK. But, the longest racetrack is in Pescara in Italy, at 25 kilometers (15.53 miles). But according to fans and the drivers themselves, the best Formula One racetracks in the world are:

1. Monza (Italy).

The location of the Autódrome Nazionale di Monza is in the Lombardy region, 20 kilometers (12. 5 miles) from Milan. It has three racetracks and is 5,800 meters (19,000 square feet).

Monza racetrack which is described as an older Formula One Racetrack

Monza hosts the Formula One Italian Grand Prix and is known for its long, straight runs. Because of this, the drivers can put the “pedal to the metal”. Even more impressive, it has 11 bends. Its inauguration was in 1922, and this is where they hosted Formula One races from 1950 to 1979.

2. Formula One racetracks: Monaco

The Monaco Racetrack or the Monte Carlo Racetrack is one of the most famous Formula One venues. As its name indicates, it’s in the principality of Monaco and was created in 1920.

So what makes this racetrack so special? It’s due to its hairpin bends and short, straight runs. In fact, the ability of the drivers is more important than the power of the cars.

Photot of Monaco racetrack which is being described in this section about Formula One racetracks

This track is 3337 kilometers (2,074 miles ) with 19 turns. The inauguration of Monaco was in 1950 and it’s continuously hosted official races since 1955.

3. Silverstone (UK)

This is one of the most important Formula One racetracks in the world. Its 20 kilometers (12.43 miles) from Northampton and only hosts the highest class of racing. In addition, there are also motorcycle events held here.

Previously, Silverstone was an airfield (during World War II), but in 1947 it was transformed into a racetrack. It was modified at various times and it boasts 5,900 kilometers (932 miles), with 18 curves. It’s one of the best known Formula One racetracks.

4. Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium: one of the oldest Formula One racetracks

This is another well-known Formula One racetrack. It’s located in the Belgian province of Lieja.  Experts designed it in 1920 and have modified and enlarged it numerous times.

Photo Spa-Francochamps racetrack in Belgium which is being described in the text

The length of this racetrack is 7,000 kilometers (4,350 miles) and has 20 curves. It was used for Formula One races between 1950 and 1970, in 1983, and between 1985 and 2005, and from 2007 to the present.

5. Yas Marina (Arab Emirates)

This is one of the best Formula One racetracks. Moreover, it’s one of the most modern. It’s hosted championship races since 2009.  Furthermore, it’s famous for its 5,554-kilometer extension, its 21 curves, and for its surrounding infrastructure.

Photo of the Yas Marina racetrack which is described in the text.

It’s worth mentioning that Yas Marina has a marina, residential areas, an aquatic park, theme park, and a leisure and sports area. Additionally, there’s even an exclusive tower for sheiks. Even more impressive is the lighting for night races.

6.  Interlagos (Brazil)

The Jose Carlos Pace Autodromo or Interlagos is located in Sao Paulo, Brazil. There have been Formula One races here intermittently since 1990. The name originates from its location between two man-made lakes (Billings and Guarapiranga). The two lakes originate from the beginning of the 20th century. The purpose of these lakes is to supply water and electricity to the area.

In addition, Interlagos is 4,309 kilometers (2,677 miles) long and has 15 curves. In contrast to other Formula One racetracks, it runs counter-clockwise. 

This track has two straight and long runs, sharp curves and a mix of switchback curves. Uniquely, the main straight run ends in an “S” shape, in honor of the driver Ayrton Senna. 

Besides these world-famous Formula One racetracks, there are other outstanding racetracks. In addition, we can mention the Barcelona Speedway, the Suzuka in Japan, and the Hockenheim in Germany. Adding to those mentioned above, there are racetracks in the following locations: Montreal in Canada, Melbourne in Australia, Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia, Sakhir in Bahrein and Austin, in the United States.


All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.



This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.