A1 Grand Prix of Nations: 2008/09

BRANDS HATCH

Overview:

Brands Hatch is the Jewel in UK motorsport's crown. The natural amphitheatre that is its Indy configuration offers unparalleled views of the action for spectators, while its awesome Grand Prix circuit remains one of the biggest challenges in UK motor racing.

Highlights for 2005 include World & British Superbikes, the British Touring Car Championship and A1 Grand Prix.

Brands Hatch is a circuit synonymous with major Sports/GT events. Among the famous races held at the Kent circuit are the Guards Trophy, BOAC 1000 and numerous World Sportscar Championship events.

After Successfully hosting the global debut of the A1 Grand Prix of Nations back in September 2005, Brands Hatch will now be the closing venue for the fourth season of the A1 Championship.

Specifications:

Location: 32 km south east of London
Track Length: 1.925 km
Laps: 76
Direction: Clockwise
Total Distance: 319.664 km
First Grand Prix: 1964
Last Grand Prix: 1986
First Winner: Jim Clark in 1964 with Lotus
Last Winner: Nigel Mansell in 1986 with Williams/Honda
Fastest Lap: Nigel Mansell 1986 1'09.593 min.
Address: Brands Hatch Circuits Ltd, Fawkham, Dartford, Kent, DA3 8NG
England

History:

The Kent circuit was built from very humble origins as a grass-track bike racing venue in 1926. Early races were run anti-clockwise, the opposite direction to what is used now.

From the early 1950s, the track played host to car and bike greats, including Sir Stirling Moss, John Surtees, Jack Brabham, and Jim Clark. Brands Hatch was extended in time for the '64 British Grand Prix and Clark was first of many famous Formula 1 winners there. Brabham, Jo Siffert, Jochen Rindt, Emerson Fittipaldi, Jody Scheckter and Niki Lauda all won here over the years.

The '85 Grands Prix stands out, as Nigel Mansell's first F1 win, Ayrton Senna's first pole position and Alain Prost's first World Championship were all scored that weekend.

Brands Hatch held its last Grand Prix a year later, but its unique combination of dips, cambers, fearsome corners and hills means it is still one of the world's favourite racing circuits.

Brands Hatch has been home to British Motoring Sports since 1926, constantly updated and upgraded it is now home to some of the best Motorcycle Races. It also hosts The Carl Fogarty Academy with Ducati where up and coming riders can improve their skills and earn their ACU licence.

Directions:

Brands Hatch is on the A20, just 3 miles from junction 3 of the M25, the circuit is well signed posted from the M25