When it comes to motorsport, race tracks come in all shapes and sizes. Some are short and technical, while others stretch for miles, testing both drivers and machines with their sheer length. The longest race tracks in the world are legendary—not just for their size but for their history, danger, and excitement.
In this article, we’ll explore the 9 longest race tracks in the world, from iconic European circuits to challenging road courses across the globe.
The 9 Longest Race Tracks in the World
1. Nürburgring Nordschleife – Germany
- Length: 20.8 miles (33.6 km)
- Known as the “Green Hell,” the Nürburgring Nordschleife is the longest permanent race track in the world. With 154 turns winding through Germany’s Eifel mountains, it’s considered the ultimate test of skill and endurance.
2. Pescara Circuit – Italy
- Length: 16.0 miles (25.8 km)
- The Pescara Circuit hosted a Formula One Grand Prix in 1957 and remains the longest circuit ever used in F1 history. The road course combined city streets, coastal roads, and mountain sections, making it incredibly demanding.
3. Targa Florio – Italy (Historic)
- Length: Up to 45 miles (72 km) per lap (various versions)
- The Targa Florio wasn’t a single fixed track but a series of road race routes in Sicily. Some layouts exceeded 40 miles per lap, making it one of the most grueling and legendary road races in history.
4. Circuit de la Sarthe (Le Mans) – France
- Length: 8.5 miles (13.6 km)
- Famous for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, this track combines permanent sections with closed public roads. Drivers face long straights like the Mulsanne that test the limits of speed and endurance.
5. Sebring International Raceway – USA
- Length: 3.7 miles (6.0 km)
- One of the longest permanent tracks in North America, Sebring is legendary for its bumpy surface and endurance racing, including the 12 Hours of Sebring.
6. Spa-Francorchamps – Belgium
- Length: 4.35 miles (7.0 km)
- Belgium’s Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is one of the most iconic F1 tracks in the world. Its fast corners and long straights, including the legendary Eau Rouge, make it a fan favorite.
7. Road America – USA
- Length: 4.05 miles (6.5 km)
- Located in Wisconsin, Road America is one of the longest road courses in the U.S. Its fast straights and technical corners make it a staple in IndyCar, NASCAR, and sports car racing.
8. Mount Panorama Circuit (Bathurst) – Australia
- Length: 3.86 miles (6.2 km)
- Better known as Bathurst, this circuit climbs and descends through Australia’s mountains. With sharp corners, long straights, and elevation changes, it’s a unique challenge.
9. Silverstone Circuit – UK
- Length: 3.66 miles (5.9 km)
- The home of the British Grand Prix, Silverstone is one of the longest F1 circuits and among the most historic, having hosted the very first Formula One World Championship race in 1950.
Why Track Length Matters
Longer race tracks mean:
- More variety in turns and straights
- Greater endurance challenges for drivers
- Unique opportunities for strategy in racing
However, longer tracks also mean fewer laps, higher speeds, and more complex safety management.
Final Thoughts
From the 20.8-mile Nürburgring Nordschleife to the historic Targa Florio routes, the longest race tracks in the world stand as monuments to motorsport history. These circuits demand precision, stamina, and bravery—qualities that separate great drivers from legends.
Whether you’re a Formula One fan, an endurance racing enthusiast, or just a lover of speed, these tracks showcase the thrilling extremes of motorsport.