The Namibian Circuit – Windhoek

When was the track built?

Recently it has been mainly used for dirt track, drag racing and drifting with both cars and motorbikes; but the complex has always included a permanent racetrack.
Although it has been kept in good shape, in order to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix an extension was needed, together with a significant improvement in the standards of safety barriers and facilities for fans and teams.
The new international circuit, designed by me, uses parts of the original layout and replaces the old small oval with a stadium section, in which cars descend from the top of the hill offering great views from the massive main stands.

When was its first Grand Prix?

The race in the new F1 in 2023 will be the first ever in the country, with a secured spot in the African Continental series.

What’s the circuit like?

The F1 layout will be clockwise but, like the original, it is characterized by spectacular elevation changes, that bring drivers up and down the beautiful sandy dunes typical of Namibia. Sand on both sides of the road makes every mistake very costly.
The track has a steep uphill until Turn 4, followed by a brief downhill section which leads to the very tricky braking zone at Turn 7 after a blind uphill superfast chicane.
The amazing uphill and banked Turn 9 is the highest point of the circuit, which has more than 50 metres between the highest and the lowest points.
After a few slower corners, where traction will be critical, it pitches down to the new stadium section, with a particularly challenging steep final chicane, where the perfect line is essential to have good speed on the main straight.
It’s a spectacular circuit with spectacular natural surroundings, with a couple of overtaking spots and plenty of difficult corners, which makes it enjoyable even if not easy.

Where is it located?

Few miles west the city of Windhoek, close to Daan Viljoen Game Reserve, well served by the international airport (- 22°34’09”, + 17°00’00”)