HISTORY OF THE AUTOMOTODROM BRNO

The Automotodrom Brno, located near the city of Brno in the Czech Republic, has a rich history that dates back to the early 1930s. The original circuit, known as the "Masaryk Circuit," was established in 1930 and was named after Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, the first president of Czechoslovakia.

Initially, the circuit was a public road course that wound through the surrounding villages and forests, featuring a challenging 29.1 km (18.1 miles) layout. The first race held on this circuit was the Masaryk Grand Prix in 1930, attracting international competitors and quickly gaining fame in European motorsports.

Over the years, the track underwent several modifications to improve safety and accommodate modern racing standards. In 1965, the length of the circuit was reduced to 13.94 km (8.66 miles) to create a more manageable course for both drivers and organisers. The increasing speed of modern race cars led to the decision to build a completely new, purpose-built track in the mid-1980s. This new circuit, known as the Automotodrom Brno, opened in 1987 and is a 5.4 km (3.36 miles) permanent road course that meets the highest safety standards.

Since its opening, the Automotodrom Brno has hosted numerous international racing events, including MotoGP, World Superbike, and various car racing series. The circuit is renowned for its fast, flowing layout and elevation changes, making it a favourite among drivers and spectators alike. Today, the Automotodrom Brno remains a key venue in the world of motorsports, continuing its legacy as a premier racing destination.

MotoGP at Brno Circuit

MotoGP, the premier class of motorcycle road racing, has a deep and enduring connection with the Automotodrom Brno. The Brno Circuit has been a regular stop on the MotoGP calendar for decades, hosting its first race in 1965 on the original Masaryk Circuit. This was during an era when motorcycle racing was as much a test of endurance as it was of speed and skill, with riders battling it out on the fast and narrow roads of the Czechoslovak countryside.

With the construction of the new Automotodrom Brno in 1987, MotoGP races moved to the modern circuit, which offered enhanced safety features and a more spectator-friendly layout. The new track quickly became a favourite among riders due to its fast corners, technical sections, and significant elevation changes, providing a thrilling challenge that tests both the riders and their machines to the limit.

Over the years, the Brno Circuit has witnessed countless memorable moments in MotoGP history, including dramatic battles for victory, breathtaking overtakes, and the rise of some of the sport's greatest champions. Riders like Valentino Rossi, Marc Márquez, and Casey Stoner have all enjoyed success at Brno, adding to the circuit’s storied legacy.

The Brno circuit has been the backdrop for many iconic MotoGP moments throughout its history. Here are some of the most memorable:

Valentino Rossi's First Brno Win (1996)
Valentino Rossi, one of MotoGP’s most legendary figures, secured his first-ever Grand Prix victory in the 125cc class at Brno in 1996. This win marked the beginning of Rossi's illustrious career, which would see him become one of the greatest riders in the sport's history.

Max Biaggi vs. Valentino Rossi (2001)
The rivalry between Max Biaggi and Valentino Rossi reached a peak at Brno in 2001. Rossi and Biaggi were fierce competitors, and their on-track duel in the Czech Republic was a highlight of the season. Rossi ultimately triumphed, but the battle showcased the intense competition between the two Italian stars.

Jorge Lorenzo's epic battle (2010)
The 2010 Brno Grand Prix featured an epic battle between Jorge Lorenzo and Dani Pedrosa. Lorenzo, who was in sensational form that year, eventually won the race, solidifying his lead in the championship. The victory at Brno was one of several key wins that helped Lorenzo clinch his first MotoGP title.

The Epic Wet Race (2016)
The 2016 Brno Grand Prix was held in tricky, wet conditions, leading to an unpredictable race. Cal Crutchlow emerged victorious, securing his first-ever MotoGP win and becoming the first British rider to win a premier class race since Barry Sheene in 1981. His choice of harder tyres in the challenging conditions proved decisive.

The last MotoGP race at Brno (2020)
The 2020 race at Brno was significant as it marked the last MotoGP event held at the circuit due to financial difficulties in renewing the contract. Franco Morbidelli took his first-ever MotoGP win in this race, making it a bittersweet farewell for the iconic track on the MotoGP calendar.