Circuits

One of a batch a modern-day circuits designed by Hermann Tilke, Istanbul Park is a high speed track where F1 cars can reach speeds of over 205mph. Istanbul is one of only four current F1 circuits that runs anti-clockwise, the others being Singapore, Brazil and the new track in Abu Dhabi.

Although the circuit does not feature Tilke's trademark long straight followed by a hairpin to encourage overtaking there are still numerous opportunities throughout the lap. The most challenging corner on the track is the multi-apex turn eight where drivers experience a load of 5G.

The circuit offers excellent spectator facilities with a capacity of 130,000 people; the race however is often badly supported by spectators. Felipe Massa is the most successful driver in the short history of the circuit, winning three consecutive races between 2006 and 2008.

Claire Furnell November 2009