Circuit du Laquais

Overview

Circuit du Laquais is a versatile motorsport venue nestled in the picturesque countryside of southeastern France, approximately 40 kilometers east of Lyon. This challenging track offers a perfect balance of technical sections and speed stretches, making it ideal for both novice drivers looking to improve their skills and experienced racers seeking to test their limits. The circuit's natural setting, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, provides a stunning backdrop for motorsport activities while its varied layout ensures an engaging driving experience for all participants.

Technical Specifications and Track Features

The Circuit du Laquais features a well-designed 2.5-kilometer asphalt track with 14 turns of varying difficulty. The layout includes a combination of tight hairpins, sweeping bends, and a main straight that allows drivers to reach considerable speeds. With elevation changes of up to 20 meters throughout the circuit, drivers face the additional challenge of mastering uphill and downhill sections that test both vehicle setup and driving technique. The track surface maintains excellent grip in various weather conditions, and its 10-12 meter width allows for competitive racing and safe overtaking maneuvers. The circuit can be configured in different variations to accommodate various event formats and training needs.

Facilities and Specialized Areas

Circuit du Laquais offers comprehensive facilities to support a wide range of motorsport activities. The paddock area provides ample space for teams and participants with convenient access to electrical hookups and basic amenities. The site includes a welcoming clubhouse with a restaurant offering panoramic views of the track, making it an ideal spot for spectators and participants alike. Safety is paramount at the circuit, with extensive runoff areas, tire barriers, and professional marshaling posts positioned strategically around the track. Additional facilities include professional timing systems, briefing rooms for driver instruction, covered pit garages, and dedicated areas for technical inspection and vehicle preparation. The circuit also features specialized training zones for precision driving exercises and skid control practice.

History

Established in the early 1990s, Circuit du Laquais was originally conceived as a driver training center before evolving into a more comprehensive motorsport facility. Over the decades, the circuit has undergone several renovations and expansions to meet growing demand and enhance safety standards. While primarily known as a testing and track day venue rather than a major competition circuit, it has nonetheless hosted numerous regional championships and club racing events that have contributed to France's rich motorsport heritage. The circuit has earned a reputation as an excellent driver development facility, with many professional racers citing their time at Circuit du Laquais as fundamental to honing their skills. Today, the venue continues to serve as an important hub for motorsport enthusiasts in the Rhône-Alpes region, balancing competitive events with driver education programs that promote both performance and safety.