January is a tough month, which is why many Brits turn to the internet to find warm holidays and some extra sunshine to help cure those lingering winter blues.
We may not be travel experts here at Trackdays, but we do know our race tracks. So, rather than reach for that extra blanket, join us as we present some of the most iconic, sub-bathed racing circuits to visit in January. Sun cream is optional(!)
Starting in southern Europe, we're off to the Mediterranean coastal city of Valencia and its superb MotoGP hotspot, the Circuit Ricardo Tormo.
Named after the famous motorcycle racer Ricardo Tormo, the area tends to have a mild winter, with average temperatures of around 16°C.
However, when you're done checking out one of the world's most famous motorcycle tracks, Valencia is also worth exploring, mainly due to its compact, walkable size. While there, it is worth exploring the park, which runs through the city centre. It used to be the river Turia but, due to persistent annual floods the city diverted it elsewhere, creating a unique centrepiece at the same time.
Next on our list is a plane over the pond to Austin, USA, to the Circuit of The Americas – the host of the United States Grand Prix. What we love the best about this circuit is the vast changes in elevation drivers have to face while tackling the track, as well as the signature set of turns towards the start, 'The Esses'.
In terms of Austin, January is a great time to visit to avoid the sweltering heat that normally scorches the land in the Summer. Yes, it may get a little chilly at night, but overall, the mild temperatures make activities like bouldering a lot easier. January also sees a huge music festival roll through the city, with plenty of local bands playing.
We wouldn't bother getting back on the plane to the UK after Austin. Why? Well, our next destination is just a quick stop over the border to Mexico. Here, nestled within the busy streets is the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez – home to the Mexican Grand Prix.
This track, on the east side of the city, is one of Formula One's highest altitude races, at over 2km above sea level.
And it is in Mexico where we really see the mercury rising during our winter escape. Expect average temperatures of around mid-20 °C while exploring Mexico City in the winter months. Due to the track's location, a quick stop on the metro will also take you into some of Mexico City's vibrant communities where you can experience great dining and culture.
Let's head across to the other side of the world now and into the tropics of Kuala Lumpur. On the city's outskirts, you'll find the Petronas Sepang International Circuit. Although the track doesn't feature on the Formula One calendar anymore, it may return sooner than expected following the signing a new sponsorship and naming rights deal with Petronas towards the end of 2023.
The wide track and long straights used to be a favourite for drivers, especially as this presented plenty of overtaking opportunities. Throw in the humidity, and you have a demanding track that'll push anyone's stamina.
As a tropical country, the temperature rarely varies here, it's mainly timing going during either the wet or dry seasons. Thankfully, January and February are part of the dry season – but still expect rain!
These winter months coincide with the Lunar New Year in Malaysia as well, bringing with it that extra party spirit – the perfect pick-me-up following our own fun during December.
Last on our holiday list is a long flight down under, to the Australian city of Melbourne, Albert Park in particular. This temporary street circuit, which goes around the lake, used to be the Formula One season opener before being usurped by Abu Dhabi.
Expect hot summer days in January, supplemented beautifully with the coastal breeze, upon arriving at the bustling city. The Yarra River is a cool escape where you can hire a boat or even kayak down if you fancy something not on four wheels. Melbourne is a very modern city with plenty to keep you busy in nearly all parts.
Visit our Track Day Circuits page today on the TrackDays website to explore our complete range of UK and International circuits we have available to book for Own Car Track Days and Own Bike Track Days events.
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