Autodromo de Panama – Sajalices

When was the track built?

Panama has a growing motorsport fan base, testified by the inauguration of a 2.3km club course near the capital and the launch of a bigger project, which unfortunately was stopped for lack of financial backers, after the main stand and ground works were completed.
Thanks to better economical conditions for GP hosts, the area near Sajalices has been reconsidered for hosting the first FIA Grade-1 circuit in Panama, designed by me and inspired by the original idea; it will use the most modern and environmentally conscious building technologies, limiting the impact on the surroundings.

When was its first Grand Prix?

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

What’s the circuit like?

It has a steep uphill-downhill section between Turn 2 and 4; the three sectors have clearly defined features: the first one is faster, with two long enough straight sections that will be the best overtaking spots.
The middle one is the most distinctive, with the high-speed snaking bit, which leads to Sector 3, where traction will be more important in the slower hairpins.
Set-ups should be balanced with mid-downforce wings.
As often in this part of the world, high temperatures and humidity, and likely heavy showers could play a part in the race.

Where is it located?

In Sajalices, a small village in central Panama, around 60km West of the capital and 80km from its International airport, on the other side of the famous Panama Canal. (+ 8°42’15”, – 79°51’37”)