This weekend the Portuguese circuit of Estoril hosts the penultimate European GP of the 2009 season. Located in the bay of Cascais approximately 30km frrom Lisbon, it is one of the prettiest venues in the calendar thanks to its combination of of beach and mountains. In marked contrast is the difficulties that the riders have on the bumpy tarmac. The Portuguese GP will without a doubt see another great battle between the top riders and machines.
Constructed in 1972 the circuit of Estoril held its first GP race at the start of the 21st century, in 2000. It holds 45 000 spectators and is a very twisty track with a lot of heavy braking. It also has a chicane that was built in 1994 and the home straight is the longest at the circuit, 986 metres.
Its location, in addition to being attractive, creates some additional problems for the riders. Such as the constantly changing weather and wind blown sand, from the beach, on the tarmac.
In the 2008 season Dani Pedrosa went to the Portuguese GP as leader of the World Championship, it was the third race of the year, and the Repsol rider got a deserved second place at this always difficult track.
Constructed in 1972 the circuit of Estoril held its first GP race at the start of the 21st century, in 2000. It holds 45 000 spectators and is a very twisty track with a lot of heavy braking. It also has a chicane that was built in 1994 and the home straight is the longest at the circuit, 986 metres.
Its location, in addition to being attractive, creates some additional problems for the riders. Such as the constantly changing weather and wind blown sand, from the beach, on the tarmac.
In the 2008 season Dani Pedrosa went to the Portuguese GP as leader of the World Championship, it was the third race of the year, and the Repsol rider got a deserved second place at this always difficult track.
Location: Estoril (Portugal)
Opened: 1972
Length: 4182 m
Width: 14 m
Left-handers: 4
Right-handers: 9
Longest straight: 986 m
