2012 Formula 1 Grand Prix of Europe
Valencia Street Circuit runs on roads through the city's marina area. Although it shares a waterside layout with Monaco, in contrast it is relatively wide and allows a much higher average speed, and there are also a lot of run-off areas at crucial points. The average lap speed is about 220 km/h, with top speed close to 310 km/h. There is no grip at all to start with. However, like any temporary road course, the track will gradually evolve over the weekend, becoming faster with each lap as it rubbers-in.
The circuit is 5.42 kilometers long with a total of 25 corners with 13 right turns and 12 left turns. Track width is minimum 14 meters and the direction is clockwise. The stop and start nature of the track requires good corner exit speed and engine torque, particularly when exiting the lower speed turns, as well as the final left-hander heading back onto the main straight. Valencia need a medium to low downforce aero configuration. A 90 degree right-hander opposite the start and finish line as well as the following hairpin offer great overtaking possibilities.
The track includes some roads designed exclusively for racing purposes by the German engineer and architect Hermann Tilke who also designed the infrastructural buildings for the circuit. The 140 meters long and 18 meters wide swing bridge across the harbour is a special feature, as are the old port buildings that form the pits and team garages. Valencia is a beautiful city but it can be very hot here during the summer. Stay at the inner dock of the Port of Valencia to enjoy the race from your own boat. The best locations are less than 10 meters from the track.