Circuit Spotlight: Donington Park

Donington Park, located in Leicestershire, England, is one of the UK's most iconic motorsport venues. As the oldest UK motorsport circuit still in operation, it offers:

• A challenging blend of high-speed straights, tight corners, and dramatic elevation changes

• A rich history dating back to 1931

• A vibrant atmosphere that captivates both drivers and fans

This combination makes Donington Park a must-visit destination for any motorsport enthusiast.

Donington Park's journey began in 1931 when Fred Craner, a local businessman and motorsport enthusiast, established a race track on the Donington Hall estate. Key historical milestones include:

• 1933: First race held, attracting large crowds and establishing its place in British motorsport

• World War II: Circuit requisitioned by the Ministry of Defence, halting racing activities

• 1971: Revival under Tom Wheatcroft, leading to restoration and modernization

• Present Day: Host to numerous national and international racing events

Donington Park embodies the spirit, passion, and adrenaline that define the world of motorsport.

The British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) is a highlight event at Donington Park, known for:

• Close, door-to-door racing action

• Diverse field of competing vehicles

• Thrilling spectator experiences with roaring engines and high-speed battles

Attending a BTCC race at Donington Park offers an unforgettable experience for motorsport fans.

Circuit Information:

Donington Park features two main circuit layouts:

• National Circuit: 3.149 km with 10 turns

• Grand Prix Circuit: 2.498 km with 12 turns

Additional circuit details:

• Capacity: 120,000 spectators

• Lap Record (GP Circuit, 4 Wheels): 1:16.92 by Harrison Newey in a 2004 McLaren MP4/19

• Lap Record (GP Circuit, 2 Wheels): 1:26.04 by Jonathan Rea in 2023 on a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10RR

The circuit's design offers a unique and challenging experience for drivers and teams alike.

Donington Park also hosts the Citroen C1 Endurance Series, characterized by Affordable and accessible endurance racing.

• Emphasis on driver skill and strategy over vehicle performance

• Tight, competitive racing due to evenly matched cars

This series exemplifies Donington Park's commitment to diverse and inclusive motorsport events.

Beyond BTCC and C1 Endurance Racing, Donington Park hosts a variety of major events, including:

• Superbike World Championship

• British GT Championship

• Download Festival: A renowned rock and heavy metal music festival

These events highlight the venue's versatility and its appeal to a broad audience.

• Motorsport Tents: Durable and customizable shelters for teams

• Modular Flooring: Easy-to-install flooring solutions for a professional appearance

• Pit Walling: High-quality walling systems for efficient pit operations