The Circuit de Catalunya

The Circuit de Catalunya, one of the most intense race tracks in Europe, is a racetrack in Montmeló, Catalonia, north of Barcelona. It hosts the Formula One Spanish Grand Prix as well as the Catalonia Grand Prix for motorcycles. The Circuit de Catalunya is regarded as an all-rounder circuit due to its long straights and variety of bends. It's frequently utilized for off-season testing.

The Circuit de Catalunya was constructed in 1991. It was intended to hold its debut race in 1992, in conjunction with the Olympic Games. The Olympic Games were supposed to be held in Barcelona. Even though it is located in Montmeló, the circuit is frequently referred to as 'Barcelona' in the racing fraternity. The Circuit de Catalunya is not to be confused with Montjuïc, which staged the Spanish Grand Prix four times between 1969 and 1975. Unlike the Circuit de Catalunya, the Montjuïc circuit is located within the city limits of Barcelona.

Overtaking was common when the circuit first began. Cars could be closely followed through the final two turns. They'd slipstream down the long straight in preparation for a pass. This style of overtaking became less effective as aerodynamic balance became increasingly critical. The cars couldn't keep up with each other as closely. They would be subjected to turbulence caused by the leading vehicle. This made it difficult for a vehicle to come close enough to pass. The next-to-last corner was replaced with a chicane in 2007 to improve passing.

Location: Montmeló, Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain