Circuito de Jerez facts for kids
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| Location | Jerez de la Frontera, Andalucia, Spain |
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| Time zone | GMT +1 |
| Broke ground | 1984 |
| Opened | 1985 |
| Major events | Formula One Spanish Grand Prix European Grand Prix Spanish motorcycle Grand Prix |
| Length | 4.428 km (2.751 mi) |
| Turns | 13 |
| Race lap record | 1:23.135 ( Heinz-Harald Frentzen, Williams, 1997) |
The Circuito de Jerez is a well-known race track in Spain. It is located close to the city of Jerez de la Frontera. This exciting circuit first opened on December 8, 1985.
When it first opened, the track quickly began hosting major motorsport events. These included important motorcycle races and even the Spanish Grand Prix for Formula One cars.
Contents
Circuito de Jerez: A Famous Race Track
Early Days and Big Races
From 1986 to 1990, the Circuito de Jerez was the home of the Spanish Formula One Grand Prix. However, the race later moved to another track, the Circuit de Catalunya, in 1991. This change happened because the Jerez circuit was in a more rural, or remote, area.
In 1994, Jerez got another chance to host a big Formula One race. This was the European Grand Prix. It happened because another track in Argentina wasn't ready in time.
Safety Changes and Challenges
During the 1994 European Grand Prix, an important change was made to the track. A special curve, called a chicane, was added to Turn 11. This was done to make the cars slow down. The goal was to help prevent serious accidents and keep the drivers safe.
The European Grand Prix returned to Jerez in 1997. This race was very exciting because it was the final race of the season. The championship title was going to be decided between two famous drivers, Michael Schumacher and Jacques Villeneuve.
However, during the awards ceremony, there was a small problem. The Mayor of Jerez, Pedro Pacheco, presented a trophy that was supposed to be given by someone else. This incident led to the track being temporarily stopped from hosting a Grand Prix. Since then, Jerez has not hosted another Formula One Grand Prix.
What Happens at Jerez Now?
Even though it no longer hosts Formula One Grand Prix races, the Circuito de Jerez is still very popular. It continues to host important events.
Since 1990, the circuit has been the home of the Spanish motorcycle Grand Prix. This is a major event for motorcycle racing fans. The track is also used for winter testing before the racing season begins. Many teams use Jerez to test their new cars and motorcycles.
Images for kids
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The start line
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The track during 2010 F1 pre-season testing
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Marc Márquez at the 2016 Spanish motorcycle Grand Prix
See also
In Spanish: Circuito de Jerez para niños
