If an example of Spain's adoration for motorsport was ever needed, then the city of Jerez de la Frontera would surely be it. Despite being situated in southern Andalucia, miles from España's largest municipalities, each year thousands of riders and spectators flock to its racetrack, Circuito de Jerez, for a range of high-level racing competitions and amateur track days.
But make no mistake, this is no fleeting infatuation. The Andalusian city has enjoyed a long love affair for all things motorsport, with huge street races attracting thousands of spectators taking place in Jerez in the 1960s before the track was even constructed!
And now, with TrackDays.co.uk, drivers and riders alike can also feel the love for the jewel that is Jerez with a range of driving experiences available throughout the year.
A History of Jerez
Built in 1986, Circuito de Jerez was the original venue of the Formula One Spanish Grand Prix. The winner that year was the iconic driver Ayrton Senna, pipping his rival, British speedster Nigel Mansell by 0.014 seconds. However, it was Mansell who had the last laugh as he took top of the podium in 1987.
A few years later, the F1 Grand Prix moved to Circuit de Catalunya just outside of Barcelona. But that's not to say the brakes were put on more race meetings being held in Jerez, with a grid row of activities occurring since, predominantly MotoGP events.
In fact, some even go as far as calling Jerez the "Mecca of Motorcycle Racing" because of the passion inspired by the sport over the years. Indeed, with TrackDays.co.uk you too can make your pilgrimage to Jerez as you test your skills on the hallowed track.
The Circuit
Drivers can expect to enjoy a unique, old school driving experience on their TrackDays.co.uk visit to Jerez.
Boasting 4,421 metres in length and consisting of five left hand corners, eight right hand corners and a series of sharp short straights, Jerez possesses all that petrol heads look for in a race circuit.
Jerez is also well known for its 'flying saucer' (don't worry, nothing extra-terrestrial), a glass-walled disk that is straddled above the track, giving VIP spectators a 360° view of the action!
The City
Despite being often overlooked in favour of nearby Seville or Cordoba, the city of Jerez is one of Spain's most beautiful destinations.
Located 20km from Sanlúcar, the city possesses worldwide acclaim for its horse fairs, sherry, and flamenco. Jerez's municipal area is also the largest in the province, situated on a strip running from the mountainous region, down through the countryside, eventually reaching the coast.
