New F1 test track in Spain

Spain will soon have a new circuit ready to host Formula One testing thanks to the construction of a new 4.5km long track. The Monteblanco Circuit is currently being built in La Palma del Condado in Huelva, near Sevilla.

The Monteblanco track will include a 1.1 km street circuit, which can be linked to the main layout, as well as several, up to 14, possible configurations. A total of 24 pit garages will be built. Organisers are also constructing a techno- park inside the track, with the intention of offering a full-time operation base to Formula One teams.

The track is designed to FIA's T1 standards, which will allow the track to host Formula One testing and even up to GP2 races.

Spain hosts the majority of Formula One testing on the circuits of Jerez, Valencia and Barcelona. So what is the intention of another Formula One test track? Circuit Director Michel Ligonnet explains: "Our intention is to become Spain's leading testing facility for F1 and private teams. But also, because of the multiple track configurations and the facilities we are providing, we will be aiming at the car launches market, and big corporate days."

The Monteblanco Circuit is a private project promoted by a French businessman living in Spain. The project was kicked off in 2001 and there are plans to start a parallel project to build a golf course, a hotel and residences in the same location.

The circuit is planned to be ready in 2007.

For more information you can visit the website: http://www.circuitomonteblanco.com/