Palo Marga International Circuit – San Nicolas

When was the track built?

The circuit uses the land previously occupied by the drag strip since the 1980s, which has hosted various events per year.
Aruba seemed ready to host major motorsport events in 1999, when the Aruba Motorsport Complex project was launched, in a different location, just few meters from the ocean; it was already inserted in the Indy Light and ALMS calendars when it was blocked due to environmental and financial issues.
Now, thanks to the new International circuit, designed by me, that will replace the old drag strip, Formula 1 will add Aruba in the Continental Series and other series will approach Aruba for a race.
The permanent track will feature new pits, paddock and entertainment facilities.

When was its first Grand Prix?

It will be the first ever GP in the country, from the 2023 season.

What’s the circuit like?

The main straight sits on top of the former drag strip and it is steeply uphill, and thanks also to the combination of Turn 1 and 2, may remind the first metres of the Circuit of the Americas.
The long sweeping Turn 3 is downhill with a very difficult braking zone, but the most interesting and challenging bit is the snaking section between Turn 9 and 13, also downhill, bumpy and extremely fast with G forces rapidly changing from right to left.
Turn 15 will be critical to reach the highest speed to the finish line: going slightly out of the ideal trajectory means a slower approach to the final corner and being vulnerable to overtaking on the main straight.

Where is it located?

Just outside the Arikok National Park, in the south area of the island, around 15 km south of the capital Oranjestad and its International airport. (12.461786; -69.895722)