RACING CIRCUITS AND THEIR GEOMETRIC DESIGN CHARACTERISTICS

Abstract

Existing race circuits were created using one of the two methods intuition or engineering. Under the intuitive approach, the track was completely built by adapting to the terrain and environment in which it is located. The engineering approach to racing circuit development involves planning, designing, and building a car park at a specific location to accommodate all the users. Racing circuit design is based on recommendations depending on the type of race to be held. In Croatia, Croatian Car and Karting Federation issued the Circular Motor Racing Track Ordinance that defines the minimum requirements for organization and equipment of racing circuits. This paper presents a conceptual design of a racing circuit that is designed as per international requirements (FIA and FIM regulations) to host international sports events. This conceptual circuit is planned to be located in Osijek, which is the largest city in Eastern Croatia. It has a great location potential for becoming a motor sport center. The selected location has a possibility of venue extension for additional content, such as a test vehicle polygon, training center , and karting racing circuit. The conceptual design includes all the criteria, such as horizontal and vertical alignments, water drainage, pavement design, safety measures, and construction elements.