New Spanish track opens
The new Formula One standard test circuit near Seville in Spain has opened for business
Circuito Monteblanco's 2.8 mile Grand Prix circuit has been booked up by Mercedes-Benz for corporate use for the majority of the first four months of operation, after which it will briefly close for the addition of safety features necessary for its FIA Grade F1T licence. The first racing will take place in September with a visit of the Historic Racing Masters package.
A unique feature - an optional street circuit loop, modelled on Monte Carlo - will also be completed in the summer.
Traditional Spanish architecture is a feature.
Pictures: Circuito Monteblanco
Organisers are also constructing a techno-park inside the track, with the intention of offering a full-time operations base to Formula One teams. "Our intention is to become Spain's leading testing facility for F1 and private teams," circuit director and GT racer Michel Ligonnet told the Autosport.com website.
"Also, because of the multiple track configurations and the facilities we are providing, we will be aiming at the car launches market, and big corporate days."
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