F1 Writers Pick Their Top Circuit Favorites

The Formula 1 calendar has expanded significantly, featuring 24 unique tracks for drivers, teams, and media, each offering a distinct experience.

As a fun off-season exercise, we’ve rated all current venues—excluding Madrid, which is set to debut this year—using four criteria: layout, history/atmosphere, location, and facilities. Here’s what our F1 writers think after assessing each circuit’s overall experience.

1. Best Circuit Layout

The layout is arguably the most complex aspect to evaluate. Does the track provide thrilling racing, or is it one of F1’s toughest courses that truly tests drivers’ skills? Notably, these two goals don’t always converge. After a thorough analysis, we’ve reached a balanced judgment combining both factors.

Filip Cleeren – Interlagos is Exceptional

Judging this category was intriguing for the reasons mentioned. While circuits like Suzuka and Monaco present great challenges, they seldom combine excitement with consistent racing, particularly due to contemporary car designs. Interlagos, with its bowl-shaped structure and multiple racing lines, excels in both aspects. A long main straight and potential rain create a consistently entertaining race.

Oleg Karpov – Racing Experience Matters Most

As someone who isn’t a racing driver, I prioritize entertaining races over personal driving enjoyment. Simpler tracks often yield better racing; for example, Norisring would undoubtedly create thrilling races. Opportunities for overtaking and consistent wheel-to-wheel battles typify tracks like Bahrain and Austria.

2. History and Atmosphere

The second criteria pertain to each venue’s history, atmosphere, and fan experience. Formula 1 thrives on its rich heritage, so venues embedded in its culture hold significant value, while newer races that offer exceptional atmospheres cannot be overlooked either.

Oleg Karpov – Monza’s Passion is Unmatched

There are certain races where the atmosphere is palpable. For example, the Italian GP captures the essence of Monza with passionate fans and a rich history. Other tracks like Zandvoort and Silverstone offer unique vibes, making them tough to rank, but I believe nothing surpasses the experience at Monza.

Stuart Codling – Monza’s Rich Legacy

Monza stands out not just for its historic significance but also for its atmosphere, enhanced by enthusiastic fans and a beautiful setting. It transports you back in time among legends like Fangio. This venue remains exceptional despite recent concerns that affected Austria’s ranking on my list.

3. Location

The third facet evaluates the venue’s location and overall allure, which enhance the experience for fans and teams. What does the host grand prix location offer beyond the race itself?

Filip Cleeren – Melbourne Outshines

Traveling to global cities is a privilege, and to me, Melbourne just surpasses Sao Paulo and Singapore. It offers a balanced mix of urban life and nature with a vibrant food scene. The central location of Albert Park allows fans easy access, building the buzz around Australia’s season opener.

4. Circuit Facilities

The fourth criterion focuses on circuit facilities. How pleasant is it to watch and work at the track? A clear trend shows that newer F1 venues often excel over established European tracks.

Filip Cleeren – Red Bull Ring is a Gem

Based on a journalist’s perspective, comfort is crucial. The Red Bull Ring in Austria boasts a spacious media center with a fantastic view of the main straight. Austin follows with its all-around excellent facilities. Meanwhile, I appreciate Singapore’s accessibility, although some Middle Eastern venues have impressive infrastructure.

Our Overall Top 10