Loaction: Barcelona, Spain
Raceday: Sunday, 14 May 2006
Time: 2000 (+8 GMT)
2005 winner: K Raikonnen
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The Formula One teams are no strangers to Barcelona's Circuit de
Catalunya; not only have they raced there every year since 1991,
they also conduct extensive testing at the venue.
Familiarity does not, however, lessen the challenge for car or
driver. Barcelona's mix of high and low-speed corners, plus its
abrasive and rather bumpy track surface, makes for a physically and
mechanically taxing race. Tyre wear is particularly high and the
varying winds that cut across the circuit mean an optimum set-up
can be hard to find.
For spectators Elf corner is among the best places to watch, as it
is one of the track's few overtaking opportunities. For the drivers
it is the final two turns, known collectively as New Holland, which
provide one of the biggest challenges of the season. A fast exit is
essential in order to maximise speed down the start-finish straight
into Elf.
2003 marked the 13th time Barcelona has hosted the Spanish Grand
Prix. Michael Schumacher has been the most successful driver at the
circuit, with a total of five victories, while Jacques Villeneuve
is the only other current driver to have won there, back in
1997.
The Circuit de Catalunya is located only 30km from Barcelona. It is
easily accessible on major routes, either the N152 or the A7
motorway (exit 13) towards Gerona.
Alternatively, it is served by rail from Sants station (Line 2) to
Montmelo Station with journey time lasting about 40 minutes, or
from Gerona in around one hour. The circuit is a short walk from
the station.
If you're flying, then the nearest international airport is El Prat
de Llobragat in Barcelona, which is 47km from the circuit. There
are regular connections to Barcelona from the airport via bus and
train.
