Donnybrook Raceway – Harare

When was the track built?

Opened in 1972, with Graham Hill as consultant, it was supposed to be used for a Formula 1 GP in mid 1970s.
The very simple 8 turns layout has been used only in 1974 for a non-titled event.
The political instability and subsequent emergence of the state halted F1 events, through racing continued at a national and club level.
The circuit extension, designed by me, throughout the 326 hectares, from turn 8 to turn 20, will bring back Formula One again.

When was its first Grand Prix?

Never a titled race has been done here. It will alternate with Bulawayo circuit to host the Zimbabwe GP.

What’s the circuit like?

The first part, up to turn 7 has kept its simple and clean lines, although some turns have been made sharper.
Then the new section, a mix of long fast corners and slow speed ones, with heavy breaking areas, which goes above the old dirt track, enriched with state-of-the-art facilities, makes this circuit very complete and challenging for drivers.

Where is it located?

The circuit is based on the outskirts of Harare, around half an hour from its international airport (- 17°49’35”, + 31°10’57”)