The Most Difficult Race Track in the World, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the race track you think is the most difficult!

Updated on May 6, 2024 06:25

Race enthusiasts often debate the challenges that various global race tracks present. For drivers, understanding these tracks helps in mastering the art of racing under complex conditions. A discussion on which track holds the title for the most difficulty brings clarity to both new and seasoned racers preparing for the extreme demands of their sport. Here, we present a list where opinions about the toughest race tracks are gathered and ranked based on user votes. This dynamic collection of community insights not only enriches the knowledge pool but also engages users in an ongoing dialogue about the intricacies of each track. By voting, users not only contribute to the collective wisdom but also connect with fellow racing fans around the world.

What Is the Most Difficult Race Track in the World?

1

84
votes
BedaNo1 · CC BY-SA 3.0

Nürburgring Nordschleife

Oscar von Neumann

The Nordschleife is a 20.8 km long track with 73 turns, offering a challenge to even the most experienced drivers. It is renowned for its high-speed corners, elevation changes, and narrow sections that make it one of the toughest tracks in the world.
The Nürburgring Nordschleife is a legendary race track located in Nürburg, Germany. It is known as one of the most challenging and demanding race tracks in the world, often regarded as the 'Green Hell' due to its unforgiving nature. The track is a combination of various curves, gradients, and long straights, spread across a scenic and treacherous landscape of the Eifel mountains.

Length: 20.832 km (12.93 mi)

Construction Period: 1925-1927

Surface: Asphalt

Track Type: Permanent road course

Turns: Around 73
2

56
votes
Mike Roberts from London, United Kingdom · CC BY-SA 2.0

Circuit de la Sarthe

This 13.6 km long track is famous for hosting the 24 Hours of Le Mans, which is considered one of the toughest endurance races in the world. The circuit features long straights, tight chicanes, and high-speed corners, making it a challenging track for drivers.
Circuit de la Sarthe is a famous automobile racing track located in Le Mans, France. It is primarily known for hosting the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The track is a combination of permanent racing circuit and closed public roads, making it an ultimate test of skill and stamina for drivers and teams.

Track length: 13.629 kilometers (8.467 miles)

Track type: Partial permanent racing circuit and public road

Number of turns: 38

Longest straight: 6 kilometers (3.7 miles)

Construction started: 1922
3

15
votes
Wata0929 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Suzuka Circuit

John Hugenholtz

The Suzuka Circuit in Japan is known for its unique figure-eight layout and challenging corners, such as the infamous Esses and 130R. The track also features high-speed changes in elevation, making it a test of skill and bravery for drivers.
The Suzuka Circuit is a famous Formula 1 circuit located in Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture, Japan. It is considered one of the most challenging and demanding tracks in the world, known for its unique figure-eight layout and fast, sweeping corners.

Length: 5.807 km (3.608 mi)

Turns: 18

Direction: Clockwise

Surface: Asphalt

First Grand Prix: 1987
Suzuka Circuit in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most difficult F1 circuit
- Position 2 of 10 in Most difficult Formula 1 track
4

22
votes
Kytabu · CC BY-SA 4.0

Mount Panorama Circuit

This 6.213 km long track in Australia is famous for its steep inclines and declines, such as the Conrod Straight and the Esses. The circuit is also known for its narrow sections, making it a tough track to overtake on.
Mount Panorama Circuit is a renowned race track located in Bathurst, New South Wales, Australia. It is considered one of the most challenging and demanding tracks in the world. The circuit was first established in 1938 and has since become an iconic venue for various motorsport events.

Length: 6.213 kilometers (3.861 miles)

Lap record: 1:59.291 - Scott McLaughlin (Ford Mustang GT) in 2020

Number of turns: 23

Elevation change: 174 meters (571 ft)

Maximum gradient: 1:6.13
5

15
votes
Planet Labs, Inc. · CC BY-SA 4.0

Circuit de Monaco

Anthony Noghès

The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious races in the world, thanks to the Circuit de Monaco's challenging layout. The 3.34 km track features tight corners, narrow sections, and unforgiving barriers, making it a test of precision and concentration for drivers.
The Circuit de Monaco is a famous street circuit located in the city of Monte Carlo, Monaco. It is known as one of the most challenging and prestigious tracks in Formula 1 racing, featuring tight corners, narrow streets, and elevation changes. The circuit is set against the backdrop of the beautiful French Riviera, with iconic landmarks such as the Casino de Monte Carlo and Port Hercule adding to its allure.

Race laps: 78

Highest elevation: 49 meters

Top speed: 325 km/h

Number of turns: 19

Location: Monte Carlo, Monaco
Circuit de Monaco in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most difficult Formula 1 track
- Position 4 of 10 in Most difficult F1 circuit
6

1
votes
magicfab · CC BY 2.0

Circuit Gilles Villeneuve

Roger Peart

The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Canada is known for its tight chicanes and hairpin turns, which require drivers to brake hard and accelerate quickly. The track also features high-speed sections and unforgiving walls, making it a challenging circuit for drivers.
The Circuit Gilles Villeneuve is a renowned Formula One (F1) racing circuit located in Montreal, Canada. It is known for its fast and challenging layout, making it one of the most difficult circuits on the F1 calendar.

Length: 4.361 kilometers (2.710 miles)

Turns: 14

Lap record: 1:13.078 (Valtteri Bottas, Mercedes, 2019)

Location: Île Notre-Dame, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

First Grand Prix: 1978
Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most difficult F1 circuit
- Position 3 of 10 in Most difficult Formula 1 track
7

7
votes
Supermac1961 from CHAFFORD HUNDRED, England · CC BY 2.0

Silverstone Circuit

Silverstone Circuit Ltd

The Silverstone Circuit in the UK is known for its high-speed corners, such as Maggots and Becketts, and its long straights. The circuit also features changes in elevation and tricky braking zones, making it a tough track for drivers to master.
The Silverstone Circuit is a renowned motorsport race track located in the United Kingdom. It is one of the oldest and most iconic circuits in Formula 1, known for its high-speed straights, challenging corners, and thrilling races.

Location: Northamptonshire, England

Length: 5.891 km (3.660 mi)

Turns: 18

Lap Record: 1:27.369 (Lewis Hamilton, Mercedes, 2020)

Opened: 1948
Silverstone Circuit in other rankings
- Position 5 of 10 in Most difficult Formula 1 track
- Position 6 of 10 in Most difficult F1 circuit
8

9
votes
Planet Labs, Inc. · CC BY-SA 4.0

Circuit Paul Ricard

Paul Ricard

The Circuit Paul Ricard in France is known for its high-speed corners and long straights, making it a challenging track for drivers to find the perfect balance between speed and control. The circuit also features unforgiving run-off areas, making mistakes costly for drivers.
Circuit Paul Ricard is a renowned race track recognized as one of the most challenging circuits in the world. It is located near Le Castellet, in the south of France. Designed by French entrepreneur Paul Ricard, the track first opened in 1970 and has since evolved into a prominent venue for various motorsport events. With its unique layout and demanding features, it presents a formidable challenge for drivers and has become a favorite among racing enthusiasts.

Track length: 5.842 km (3.630 mi)

Number of turns: 15

Longest straight: 1.8 km (1.12 mi)

Track width: 10-16 meters (32.8-52.5 ft)

Elevation change: 167 metres (548 ft)
9

8
votes
Marlon Hammes, cropped/retouched by Morio · CC BY 2.0

Autódromo José Carlos Pace

Designer: Joaquim Tenreiro

The Autódromo José Carlos Pace in Brazil is known for its tight and twisty sections, such as the Senna S and the Descida do Lago. The circuit also features changes in elevation and tricky braking zones, making it a challenging track for drivers.
Autódromo José Carlos Pace, also known as Interlagos Circuit, is a legendary race track located in São Paulo, Brazil. It is considered one of the most challenging and prestigious circuits in the world due to its unique layout and demanding features.

Location: São Paulo, Brazil

Track length: 4.309 kilometers (2.677 miles)

Circuit Type: Permanent road course

Direction: Anti-clockwise

Number of turns: 15
10

4
votes
Mutari 10:51, 21 September 2007 (UTC) · Public domain

Circuit de Catalunya

Hermann Tilke

The Circuit de Catalunya in Spain is known for its high-speed corners and long straights, making it a challenging track for drivers to find the perfect balance between speed and control. The circuit also features tricky braking zones and unforgiving run-off areas, making mistakes costly for drivers.
The Circuit de Catalunya is a motor racing circuit located in Montmelo, Catalonia, Spain. It is one of the most famous and iconic circuits in the world of Formula 1. The circuit has a rich history and has been hosting the Spanish Grand Prix since 1991.

Location: Montmelo, Catalonia, Spain

First Grand Prix: 1991

Track length: 4.655 kilometers

Number of turns: 16

Lap record: 1:18.149 (Lewis Hamilton, 2020)
Circuit de Catalunya in other rankings
- Position 8 of 10 in Most difficult F1 circuit

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Ranking factors for difficult race track

Number of turns

A higher number of turns will generally make a track more difficult, as drivers have to navigate through a series of complex corners while maintaining optimal speed.
Elevation changes

Steep elevation changes can make a track considerably more challenging, as they require drivers to adjust their braking points, throttle application, and gear changes to maintain optimal racing lines.
Surface grip and conditions

The grip level and consistency of a track's surface are important factors when assessing difficulty. A track with a low grip surface or one that varies in grip levels can be particularly challenging for drivers to manage.
Weather

The weather conditions at a race track can significantly influence its difficulty. Heavy rain can lead to decreased visibility and slippery surfaces, while strong winds can affect the car's aerodynamics, making it challenging for drivers to maintain control and execute precise maneuvers.
Safety features

A track with limited run-off areas, barriers close to the racing line, or sections with poor visibility can make a track more difficult and dangerous for drivers.
Technical demands

Some tracks have intricate combinations of corners, chicanes, and undulations that demand immense technical ability from drivers. This often requires precise car control, knowledge of racing lines, and excellent spatial awareness.
History and prestige

The history and prestige associated with a track can also add a level of difficulty, as drivers may feel more pressure to perform well at iconic and storied circuits.
Car setup challenges

Some tracks present unique challenges in terms of setting up the car for optimal performance. Tracks with a mix of high-speed and low-speed sections may require teams to make compromises in their car setups, making it more difficult for drivers to find the perfect balance.
Driver familiarity

A track's difficulty can also be influenced by how familiar drivers are with the circuit. A track that is rarely used for competitive racing may be more challenging for drivers who have limited experience or knowledge of the layout.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most difficult race track in the world. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or track is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

3940 views
208 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each track once every 24 hours. The rank of each track is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most difficult race track in the world

Background Information: The Most Difficult Race Tracks in the World Race tracks are designed to test the limits of drivers and push the boundaries of what’s possible in motorsport. Some tracks, however, take this challenge to another level, with a combination of high-speed corners, elevation changes, and other factors that make them particularly challenging to navigate. Over the years, many race tracks have built a reputation for being among the most difficult in the world. From the legendary Nürburgring in Germany to the Mount Panorama Circuit in Australia, these tracks have tested the skills of some of the world’s best drivers. But what makes a race track truly difficult? For starters, it’s often a combination of factors such as the layout of the track, the number and severity of corners, the amount of elevation change, and the track surface itself. Other factors like weather conditions, traffic, and the overall intensity of the race can also play a role. Despite these challenges, many drivers relish the opportunity to tackle some of the world’s most difficult race tracks. Whether it’s for the thrill, the competition, or the chance to set a new lap record, these tracks remain some of the most iconic and beloved in the world of motorsport.