HISTORY OF THE CIRCUIT

The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli, located in Misano Adriatico, Italy, has a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1972. The circuit was initially developed to host a variety of motorsport events, including motorcycle and car racing. It was originally known as the "Autodromo di Santamonica," reflecting its location near the Santa Monica-Cella area.

In the early years, the track gained prominence by hosting several national and international racing events.

Misano first hosted a motorcycle World Championship race in 1980 (as part of the Italian Grand Prix) and subsequently was a regular venue until 1993. MotoGP returned to Misano in 2007 (under the name San Marino and Rimini Riviera motorcycle Grand Prix) and has been a fixture on the calendar ever since. Several times, races have been held twice here (as part of the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix).

The circuit underwent significant renovations in 1993 to meet the evolving safety standards and to accommodate more diverse racing events.

One of the key changes during this period was the extension of the track to its current length of 4.2 kilometres (2.63 miles), making it more competitive and appealing to major racing series.

The circuit was renamed in 2012 to honour Marco Simoncelli, a beloved MotoGP rider who tragically passed away in 2011. This renaming was a tribute to Simoncelli's contributions to the sport and his connection to the region.

The circuit continues to host major events such as the MotoGP, Superbike World Championship, and GT World Challenge, cementing its status as a premier racing destination in Europe. The Misano World Circuit Marco Simoncelli remains a central hub for motorsport enthusiasts, offering a mix of high-speed straights and challenging technical corners. It is not only a venue for professional racing but also a popular spot for track days, testing sessions, and various automotive events, maintaining its legacy in the world of motorsports.