Tracks That Hosted a Single Grand Prix in Formula 1’s History

From the bustling streets of Monaco to the historic grounds of Silverstone, Formula 1 has graced over 70 different tracks worldwide. However, not every circuit has left an indelible mark on the sport’s history. In this article, we delve into ten unique racetracks that hosted a single grand prix during Formula 1’s 75-year journey.

Pescara Circuit – 1957 Pescara GP

The Pescara Circuit in Italy, nestled on the Adriatic coast, holds the record for the shortest stint as an F1 venue, hosting just a single race in 1957. This 16-mile loop featured more than 30 corners and two long straights, making it one of the longest circuits ever raced on by Formula 1.

Ain-Diab, 1958 Moroccan GP

In 1958, Formula 1 ventured to Morocco for a single race on a street course built between Casablanca and Azemmour. This five-mile track was the last race of the season that year, deciding the champion as Mike Hawthorn finished second. However, safety concerns following a serious crash led to its abandonment.

AVUS, 1959 German GP

The Automobil-Verkehrs-und Übungsstraße (AVUS) in Germany was Formula 1’s most unorthodox track, with its debut race in 1959. Its wild layout, featuring two 180-degree turns and parallel straights, made for high speeds but poor spectator engagement. The risks associated with the banked corners ultimately led to its removal from the schedule.

Circuito de Monsanto, 1959 Portuguese GP

Portugal has been a regular on the F1 calendar, but in 1959, Formula 1 raced on a street circuit in Lisbon known as the Circuito de Monsanto. The race was won by Stirling Moss, but safety concerns and construction issues led to its abandonment.

Sebring International Raceway, 1959 United States GP

Today, Sebring is synonymous with endurance racing, but in the 1950s, it hosted F1 racing. The track’s 5.2-mile layout was a far cry from its current configuration and faced criticism for inconsistent track surfaces and maintenance issues.

Riverside International Raceway, 1960 United States GP

Sebring’s removal from the calendar paved the way for Formula 1’s next attempt at breaking America with a race at the Riverside International Raceway in California. Poor attendance and financial issues led to its demise after the 1960 event.

Zeltweg Airfield, 1964 Austrian GP

Before the Red Bull Ring took over hosting responsibilities, Formula 1 trialled an event on an old Austrian Air Force base with just four corners. The track served up one win for Lorenzo Bandini but was canned after drivers complained about the narrow, bumpy track and poor viewing areas.

Bugatti Circuit, 1967 French GP

France no longer hosts an F1 round, but long before Paul Ricard opened its paddock doors, Formula 1 trailed a race at the Bugatti Circuit, which is located within the Circuit de la Sarthe that hosts Le Mans every year. The layout wasn’t popular among drivers, and poor attendance led to its abandonment.

Fair Park circuit, 1984 Dallas GP

In Formula 1’s quest to find a permanent home in the U.S., it raced at 12 different tracks across the country, including the Fair Parks circuit in Dallas, Texas. However, temperatures north of 37 degrees Celsius wrought havoc on the cars and track, leading to its demise after the 1984 event.

Donington Park, 1993 European GP

For the 1993 European Grand Prix, Donington Park found its moment in the F1 spotlight. The race was dominated by Ayrton Senna’s opening lap, but a lack of cash to upgrade the track’s facilities meant F1 never returned.