This fantastic race circuit in the south of France is surely one of the best in Europe and in the world. The track was built in 1969 with a major financial contribution from Paul Ricard the pastis magnate and the track has been developed ever since. The French round of the Formula One GP was held here for many years and the Endurance Bol Dor motorcycle race has been held here many times. It is also frequently used for testing by car and bike race teams.
The circuit is a lesson to all of the other race tracks in Europe (I have visited many but of course not all!!). The French improve the circuit constantly and this year it has been improved for the spectators over last year, the bike parking is even better laid out and is on hard ground near to the track entrance (I visited for the 2022 race so I saw clearly the changes).
Over the very long race weekend (the main race starts at 3pm Saturday and finishes at the same time on Sunday) they host about 120,000 vistors, there are also two important support races on the Friday and Saturday morning and at the same time the circuit hosts loads of other entertainment from stands selling almost everything plus food and drink and even a rock concert and a funfair.
A truly exceptional track and amazing organization too, hats off to the French!
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