World History of Motor Racing Circuits

The history of the most famous racing circuits, illustrated by the keen eye of photographers. A formidable human and technical adventure, synonymous with passion and emotion. A very unique universe, with its rules, myths, accidents, disappointments, and dramas...

A modern extension of horse racing, motor racing has always fascinated minds. Eager for thrills, the crowds of the Belle Époque were passionate about automobiles, improbable, noisy, and dangerous machines whose performance continued to increase. The first races organized on open roads ended in carnage. The circuit quickly established itself as the safest way to compete, which in no way prevented tragic accidents. True temples dedicated to speed, Brooklands, Monza, Indianapolis, and Montlhéry already emerged as essential venues of the interwar period. Motor racing resumed in earnest after 1945, experiencing a new boom with the democratization of the automobile. After the legendary events, like the 24 Hours of Le Mans, more technical events now emerged, taking place on increasingly modern circuits designed by the best engineers in the field. At the dawn of the 21st century, new technologies brilliantly enhanced motor racing, which has never been so popular more than a hundred years after its birth...