List of Best Formula 1 Street Circuits in the World
The top 5 best F1 street circuits, from Las Vegas to Baku, where speed meets stunning cityscapes in thrilling Formula 1 races.
Advertisement
Formula 1 is renowned for its thrilling races on some of the most iconic tracks worldwide, but nothing quite matches the excitement of a street circuit. These temporary tracks, set up in the heart of bustling cities, offer a unique blend of speed, challenge, and stunning scenery. Each circuit brings its own flavor, combining the thrill of high-speed racing with the backdrop of famous landmarks and urban landscapes. From the bright lights of Las Vegas to the historic streets of Baku, these are the street circuits that every F1 fan should know.
Let’s have a look a the best Formula 1 Street Circuits in the Word
1. Las Vegas Strip Street Circuit
- Track Length: 6.12km
- Fastest Lap: 1:35.490 – Oscar Piastri in 2023
- Turns: 17
- Time in F1: 2023 to present
Las Vegas and Formula 1 seem like the perfect match. The first attempt at a race here in the 1980s was less glamorous, taking place in a Caesars Palace car park. Despite the setting, it crowned champions Nelson Piquet and Keke Rosberg.
Now, F1 is back in Las Vegas with a much more spectacular circuit. This new track, designed by Carsten Tilke, debuted in 2023. It takes drivers through the heart of the Las Vegas Strip at night, with highlights like racing around the MSG Sphere Arena and a half-mile straight along Koval Lane. The 1.9km back straight will see cars hitting speeds of up to 340kph as they pass famous landmarks like Treasure Island, The Mirage, Caesar’s Palace, and the Bellagio Fountains.
2. Marina Bay Street Circuit
- Track Length: 5.06km
- Fastest Lap: 1:41.905 – Kevin Magnussen in 2018
- Turns: 23
- Time in F1: 1969 to 1975
Street circuits offer unique experiences, and Singapore’s Marina Bay Street Circuit is a prime example. It’s the only night race in this list, with cars speeding through brightly lit streets, creating a dazzling spectacle.
Marina Bay also features a floating grandstand, where spectators can watch cars pass underneath. The bumpy finish straight adds excitement, sending sparks flying like in the 1980s. It remains one of the toughest circuits for drivers, demanding skill and concentration.
3. Albert Park
- Track Length: 5.28km
- Turns: 14
- Fastest Lap: 1:20.235 – Sergio Pérez in 2023
- Time in F1: 1996 to present
Albert Park in Melbourne is a favorite stop on the F1 calendar. The Australian Grand Prix is known for its friendly atmosphere and stunning backdrop.
The updated Albert Park circuit is now shorter and has fewer corners, but the wider, newly resurfaced track allows for more overtaking. The bumpy and narrow circuit makes passing challenging, with cars reaching speeds of 235kph. Safety Cars often appear due to the track’s tricky nature.
4. Baku City Circuit
- Track Length: 6.00km
- Turns: 20
- Fastest Lap: 1:43.009 – Charles Leclerc in 2019
- Time in F1: 2016 to present
The Baku City Circuit in Azerbaijan is a unique mix of speed and scenery. Despite its eight 90-degree corners, this circuit is incredibly fast, with a long start/finish straight perfect for overtaking.
In 2016, Valtteri Bottas reached an unofficial top speed of 378kph during practice, making it one of the fastest circuits. The track loops around the historic city of Baku, providing a stunning backdrop while drivers push their cars to the limit, reaching speeds of 360kph.
5. Jeddah Corniche Circuit
- Track Length: 6.17km
- Turns: 27
- Fastest Lap: 1:30.734 – Lewis Hamilton in 2021
- Time in F1: 2021 to present
The Jeddah Corniche Circuit, introduced in 2021, quickly became known for its speed and tight layout. Designed by Carsten Tilke, this track runs along the Red Sea, making it the fastest F1 street circuit.
At 6.17km, it’s the second-longest circuit in F1, after Spa-Francorchamps. The narrow track requires precision, and drivers must navigate it with both skill and courage. Jeddah’s mix of traditional Arabian architecture and modern design adds to the circuit’s unique appeal, making it a standout venue in the F1 calendar.
Also Read: Formula 1: Can F1 cars legally be driven on streets?