Cabo Velas Ring – Tamarindo

When was the track built?

Costa Rica’s second permanent track, alongside Autódromo La Guácima near San José, is a re-development project of the area of the disused Cabo Velas aerodrome, in a famous touristic spot on the Pacific coast, which will make it a much-anticipated stage for drivers and fans.
The multi-layout circuit, designed by me, is the first one in the country to have a FIA Grade-1 certification and have the possibility to host all major motorsport series, including Formula 1 from 2023.

When was its first Grand Prix?

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

What’s the circuit like?

Clearly inspired by the original Hockenheim, with its long straight or full-throttle sections followed by strong braking zones and chicanes, it differs from the German iconic circuit in the stadium section, placed in the middle sector rather than the final one.
Turn 3 and 4 are heavily banked as they’re also part of the semi-oval layout, and it offers several elevation changes as it is shaped on the hilly nature of the coast.
Particularly challenging the downhill section T5-6-7 and its counterpart uphill T10-11-12.
The final sector is the most difficult one: starting from the banked and blind T13, passing on the parabolic straight that has a 30m hump, and ending in the tight double chicane.
Overall, it’s very fast and cars will aim at super-low downforce set-ups, rarely seen in modern days, and extreme engine settings.
Tow will surely play a role as well as the unpredictable weather, carrying heavy showers quickly from the Ocean.

Where is it located?

In the area formerly used by the Cabo Velas aerodrome, on the North West coast of Costa Rica, between the touristic destinations of Tamarindo and Playa Flamingo.
Canton Liberia and its airport are around 60km East, while the capital San José is nearly 300km south East. (+ 10.357249, -85.854126)