Mettet

Overview

Nestled in the picturesque Belgian countryside, the Circuit Jules Tacheny Mettet offers an exhilarating racing experience for motorsport enthusiasts. Located at approximately 50.30°N, 4.65°E near the town of Mettet in Belgium's Wallonia region, this versatile track combines technical challenges with high-speed sections. The circuit is renowned for hosting a variety of competitions including supermoto events, car races, and motorcycle competitions, making it a vibrant hub for motorsport culture in Belgium.

Technical Specifications and Track Features

Circuit Jules Tacheny stretches over 2.28 kilometers (1.42 miles) with a compelling layout featuring 13 turns that test drivers' technical abilities. The track width ranges from 9 to 12 meters, providing ample space for overtaking maneuvers while maintaining competitive racing. Its layout includes a combination of challenging hairpins, flowing curves, and a notable straight section allowing speeds of up to 240 km/h. The circuit's unique topography incorporates moderate elevation changes that add complexity to braking zones and corner approaches. The anti-clockwise configuration provides drivers with an interesting alternative to the more common clockwise circuits in Europe, requiring different driving techniques and setup considerations.

Facilities and Specialized Areas

The facility boasts comprehensive amenities for participants and spectators alike. Modern pit buildings house 20 garages equipped with essential technical services for teams. The paddock area offers generous space for team operations with reliable power connections and water supply. Spectator facilities include covered grandstands with excellent visibility of key racing sections, particularly around the hairpin turns and main straight. The circuit features a professional race control tower with advanced timing systems and safety monitoring equipment. Additionally, the venue includes specialized areas such as a dedicated karting track and a supermoto section with both tarmac and off-road portions, making it unique among Belgian racing venues.

History

Named after Jules Tacheny, a renowned Belgian motorcycle racer from the 1930s and 1940s, the circuit honors the country's rich motorsport heritage. Originally established in the late 1990s, the track underwent significant modernization in 2006-2007, transforming it from a basic layout to the professional facility seen today. The circuit gained international recognition for hosting rounds of the Superbiker championship, which became one of Europe's premier supermoto events, attracting top riders from around the world. Throughout its history, Circuit Jules Tacheny has maintained strong connections with both motorcycle and car racing communities, fostering talent development through various racing schools and amateur competitions. Today, it continues to play an important role in Belgium's motorsport landscape, balancing professional events with accessible track days for enthusiasts.