Zandvoort’s Famous Banked Corners

Banked corners, a unique feature in motorsport where the outer edge of a turn is higher than the inner edge, have a rich historical significance in Formula 1 circuit history, invoking a sense of nostalgia among enthusiasts.

Zandvoort's Turn 14, known as the Arie Luyendykbocht, is the steepest banked corner on the current F1 calendar, with an impressive 18-degree incline. The corner initially dates back to 1948. This feature, reintroduced in the 2021 Dutch Grand Prix, presents a unique challenge for drivers, allowing them to maintain higher speeds and increasing overtaking opportunities, adding to the uniqueness of the circuit

Other F1 tracks also incorporate banked turns, though less extreme. Monza, for example, has subtle banking, and its history includes steeper corners from earlier eras, connecting the present to the sport's rich past. The Circuit of the Americas (COTA) in Austin has a steep incline at Turn 1, while the Indianapolis Motor Speedway previously used part of its banked oval during the early 2000s U.S. Grand Prix.

F1's banked corners are more restrained than those of other racing series. NASCAR and IndyCar, for example, feature circuits like Daytona, Talladega, and Bristol Motor Speedway, where banking often exceeds 30 degrees, allowing for higher speeds and a different, more aggressive racing style.

Banking enhances grip and speed, influencing race strategy and tire wear while demanding precise driving skills. While F1's use of banked corners is selective, it adds complexity and excitement, challenging drivers in ways that are distinct from other motorsport series. As F1 evolves, the role of banked corners is anticipated to grow, further testing the limits of cars and drivers and adding to the excitement of the sport's future.