It is one of the great subjective topics in motorsport – analysing the criteria of a “good” racetrack.

Every member of the motorsport community will have a different approach to answering this conundrum, with personal experience a contributing factor.

Motorsport Australia breaks down the building blocks that make for an objectively “good” racetrack.

History

The history and mystique of Australia’s racetracks elevates the prestige of Australian motorsport.

Albert Park’s Grand Prix Circuit, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Sydney Motor Sport Park, “The Bend” and the Adelaide Street Circuit sit in the upper echelon of Australia’s most recognisable racetracks, while Mount Panorama exudes perhaps the most respected history of them all because of the unrivalled list of iconic races combined with its unique character.

This history also extends to the 100-plus racetracks operated by the country’s motorsport clubs, which are all maintained and supported by volunteer members.

A colourful history, backed by the love and support of its constituents, is imperative for any good racetrack.

A variety of turns and passing opportunities

Entertainment is the hallmark of any racing event, which is why passing opportunities are considered important across all levels of motorsport. People want to see battles between racers throughout the race.

The type of circuit that lends itself to Australian racing cars in particular, are ones with slower 90 degree angle corners with cars braking side by side in a fight for the better position.

Complemented by a wide variety of turns with competitive long straights, and these tracks provide for exhilarating racing.

Tracks that offer a substantial amount of passing opportunities and a wide variety turns, may provide spectators with more entertainment and a more enjoyable drivers experience for competitors.

A strong officials team

Events are not just run at a venue, there is a mountain of preparation and procedure that is woven before the proceedings even get underway.

In order to execute the preparation, a dedicated team of volunteers is required to ensure an event is smoothly run and made as safe as possible for competitors, spectators and other officials.

Motorsport Australia General Manger of Motorsport Operations David Stuart states the team of officials at an event are an imperative part of any track.

“Officials not only make an event enjoyable, they also dedicate their own time and their own weekends to the betterment of the sport we all love,” Stuart said.

“We’re always encouraging our officials to engage with as many events as they can, because we also know that the more officials we have, the better an event is run and the happier our competitors and patrons both are.”

Head to the Motorsport Australia Officials page to find out how to make your mark on motorsport.

Atmosphere

Without fans and without spectators, motorsport would cease to be the spectacle it is today.

It is not a known science to quantify what exactly makes a great atmosphere, but it is extremely important when racetracks prepare for any event organising committee to consider the fan experience near the top of the priority list.

Notable mentions include the large grandstand at Sandown International Raceway, which provides the capability of drawing some of the biggest crowds throughout the year. Additionally, Hidden Valley Raceway in the Northern Territory is also a major attraction on the events calendar for its viewing areas catering to both circuit and drag racing events.

It also comes down to the people promoting their events. The more effort people put into garnering interest prior to the event, the more anticipation is built, which typically results in a lively and exciting atmosphere.

Safety

While racing can be a risky business, if all relevant safety checks are made and top-level racetrack standards are ticked off – it makes the overall experience at any racetrack more enjoyable.

From an officials standpoint and a competitor standpoint, having tracks that are built to a global standard, gives them the confidence to be able to work and compete to the best of their ability off and on the track.

Intrinsically, motorsport circuits in Australia are built to a high standard and offer a high degree of protection to the competitors and the marshals.

Australia has 115 tracks around the country across all levels, excluding off road and rally events with 13 of these tracks FIA graded.

For a full list of Motorsport Australia affiliated venues and racetracks, head to motorsport.org.au/events/venues.