Leach Bay Circuit – East London

When was the track built?

The original 24km circuit was inaugurated in 1934 and used touristic and public roads.
It has been reduced multiple times to comply with more modern standards up until 1959, with its final 3.9km version which became a regular appointment in the Formula 1 calendar in the 1960s, but it was too short for modern F1 cars and it lost its spot to Kyalami.
It will be back in the calendar and part of the Circuit Database thanks to the latest restyle, done by me, including new permanent box and paddock, extended track and revised corner angles and run-off areas.

When was its first Grand Prix?

The first race in 1934 was won by Whitney Straight on Maserati, while the first titled race in 1962 saw the victory of Graham Hill, who also secured the title on his BRM, after Jim Clark was forced to retire due to an oil leak on his while leading. This new layout has never been used.
It will host both F1 World Title and African Continental races.

What’s the circuit like?

The original concept of four connected straight parts has been kept, although the sneaky section of “The Esses” has been made more technical with sharper angles and most of the corners have been reshaped aiming at improving overtaking with such short straights.
The circuit features also new state-of-the-art garages and paddock.

Where is it located?

In the gorgeous Eastern Cape province, close to the East London airport.             
(- 33°03’00”, + 27°52’05”)