Four races on the 2024 calendar were on the inaugural F1 season in 1950
From its inception, Formula 1 has been a global sport. This article delves into the storied past of iconic tracks that have firmly etched their names in the history books of motorsport legend. As new fans explore the captivating world of Formula 1, it's essential to familiarize themselves with the timeless circuits that have played a pivotal role in shaping the sport. From the glamorous streets of Monaco to the high-speed straights of Monza, these revered venues have borne witness to countless epic battles and heart-pounding finishes.
Only four remaining circuits on the 2024 calendar were on the inaugural 1950 F1 Championship season. Listed by total number of grand prix held at each circuit:
Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps (Belgian Grand Prix): If you combine beauty and speed equally, you end up with Spa. Spa-Francorchamps is a favorite among drivers and fans. Situated in the Ardennes forest in Belgium, Its fast, flowing nature and unpredictable weather conditions create an exhilarating racing experience.
Running through a beautiful forest at full speed, the elevation changes, the vibrant yellow and red curbs, picturesque views, and perhaps the most famous corner in racing, "Raidillon and Eau Rouge," is truly an iconic venue loved by all F1 fans worldwide.
American History: In 1967, Dan Gurney won the Belgian Grand Prix with his team, AAR-Eagle (All-American Racers). Gurney was one of three American drivers to win at Spa ('61 Hill, '67 Gurney, '78 Andretti) and the first American constructor to win a Formula 1 race.
1967 Belgian GP - Dan Gurney AAR-Eagle
Silverstone Circuit (British Grand Prix): The first official F1 race was held on May 15, 1950, in Northamptonshire, England, at Royal Air Force Silverstone. Originally a Royal Air Force bomber station active during World War 2, the runways were converted into a raceway in 1948. Silverstone is one of the oldest circuits in Formula 1 and is considered the home of British motorsport. Mix history, beauty, and iconic corners like Maggots and Becketts, Copse; you have Silverstone. It has undergone various layout changes over the years, but it remains a high-speed circuit with fast corners that demand precision and bravery from drivers.
American History: Peter Revson won the 1973 British Grand Prix with Yardley Mclaren. It was Revson's first win in F1 and the first and only time an American Driver won the British Grand Prix.
1973 British GP - Peter Revson-Yardley McLaren
Circuit de Monaco (Monaco Grand Prix):
When you think of Formula 1 racing, Monaco instantly comes to mind. It's set in the streets of Monte Carlo, offering a tight and tricky circuit. Monaco has a bit of a debate around it; Despite being part of the F1 calendar for almost 70 years, the circuit's narrow streets struggle to accommodate the larger, more modern F1 cars, nearly twice the size of the original ones. Some people find Monaco races dull because it's tough for cars to pass each other on the narrow track. Monaco isn't just about the Sunday race; the qualifying session here is crucial for a good race finish. The yachts, the tunnel curve, and the rascasse turn make Monaco's street circuit legendary, rich in history, and one of the most prestigious and challenging races in the Formula 1 calendar.
American History: No American driver has ever won this critical piece to the Triple Crown of Racing (Monaco Gp, Indy 500, 24 Hr Le Mans). Two American drivers stood on the podium of the 1961 Monaco GP, with Richie Ginther in second place and Phil Hill in third, both for Ferrari. Dan Gurney also finished fifth during that same GP, resulting in three American drivers in the top. Michael Andretti finished just out of the points in eighth place in the 1993 Monaco GP, and the last points finish was 1981 Eddie Cheever with Tyrrell in fifth place.
1961 Monaco Grand Prix (38 Phil Hill & 36 Richie Ginther - Ferrari)
Autodromo Nazionale Monza (Italian Grand Prix): Known as the "Temple of Speed," Monza, located near Milan, Italy, is one of the oldest and fastest tracks in Formula 1. The thrill of cars racing at Monza for over 100 years is unparalleled, and it has perhaps the most profound historical significance of any circuit on the F1 calendar, having hosted more F1 races than any other F1 circuit.
Parabolica Curve at Monza
Monza is known for its long straights and high-speed corners, making it a test of bravery and skill. The circuit is simple, with long straights, chicanes, and sweeping corners. With the podium celebrations overlooking the front straight, the massive Italian crowds swarm the overhanging podium for a sea of red-wearing (Ferrari) is a sight to see.
American History: The last podium for an American driver was at the 1993 Italian Grand Prix from Michael Andretti with McLaren. Phil Hill also won the 1961 Italian Grand Prix, clinching his first Driver's title at Monza.
1993 F1 Italian GP Podium (1st- Damon Hill, 2nd- Jean Alesi, 3rd- Michael Andretti)
