There are not so many speed circuits in Spain, at least compared with the demand, which was high in the past with the Spanish tradition on motorbike competition, from the times of great Angel Nieto, and has even increased with the rise of Fernando Alonso, youngest Formula One race and championship winner.

Most known circuit is Montmelo, in Catalonia, North East of Spain, close to Barcelona. This is where the Spanish Formula One GP is being held.

At the South, Jerez, is the most famous for motorbike enthusiasts. Also used for fine tuning Formula One cars.

At the East, close to Valencia, the Circuit de la Comunitat Valenciana Ricardo Tormo at the village of Cheste is also used for motorbike competitions, and now for the GP2 championship.

At the Center, close to Madrid, Jarama is no longer used for Formula One, but still holds many car competitions, also truck races.

Finally, at mid-distance between Madrid and Valencia, Albacete is also used for motorbike competitions. Other less known circuits are at Almeria and Cartagena, both of them in the South-East coast of Spain.

Recently, Valencia has been designated by Formula One championship to host a race, in a newly design urban circuit, that will pass through the incredible buildings of Ciudad de las Artes y de las Ciencias, designed by world-reknown engineer Santiago Calatrava

For those in search of new experiences, there is Ascari racing resort, close to Ronda, in Málaga. This circuit, named after Alberto Ascari, the first double Formula 1 champion, offers aunique experience in terms of adrenaline and luxurious relaxation. Among the offerings: driving a Benetton F-1 car, extreme 2 seater GT cars, driving classical gems from Ascari Team, driving speed buggys, skid pad facility for practising in a safe environment.

Copyright 2007 - Ignacio Garcia del Valle - GVmaps.com