Punta Huete Circuit – Managua

When was the track built?

After the news that Nicaragua is planning on revamping and transforming the Punta Huete airport into an international hub, the new Formula One Organization selected an area conveniently close to it and just outside the Nation capital Managua, for a permanent 2-layout circuit, designed by me, that will be the first ever in the country and will be able to host all major motorsport categories, including Formula 1 from 2023.
It will feature latest standards in terms of entertainment, comfort and environmental building, including a hotel and a solar farm.

When was its first Grand Prix?

It will be the first ever Formula 1 GP in this country.
Nicaragua has the fourteenth spot in the calendar of the South American Continental Series.

What’s the circuit like?

After a 1.2km long main straight, which includes a high-speed double bend before the first real braking zone, there is a technical Sector 1, with a snaky flow of corners that opens with the tricky Turn 8 that can be faced full-throttle with the correct line.
Exiting chicane 9-10 it becomes faster and more linear, with sharp corners allowing lunges; cars will be full-throttle most of the time after T12 up to the tight hairpin 17.
The tricky double-apex final Turn 19-20 will be particularly insidious during qualifying.
As most of the circuits in Central America, temperatures and humidity will put drivers to the test, while heavy showers could bring drama at any moment.

Where is it located?

In Punta Huete, on the other side of  Lake Xolotlán, facing the capital Managua and its International airport, around an hour drive to the south; the circuit is also served by the local Punta Huete airport, which is the weather alternate for the Managua Airport. (+ 12.348378, -86.183987)