Formula 1 returns to Valencia From 30- TO 25 JULY 2010, Valencia will be once again hosting the Telefónica European Formula 1 Grand Prix for the second year in a row, the eleventh race on the world championship circuit that will bring together the 20 best drivers in the world.
The Valencia Street Circuit covers a distance of five kilometres, taking drivers through the Juan Carlos I Marina by Valencia's port to the new area of the city heading out towards El Grao. The circuit includes a swing bridge that crosses the port's dockland area and the use of an emblematic 19th Century building as the pit area.
Following the success of last year, when Felipe Massa claimed victory and took his place on the podium alongside Lewis Hamilton and Robert Kubica, this latest edition includes some major new features that will undoubtedly draw the crowds to Formula 1 racing and make it possible for people with reduced mobility or visual impairment to enjoy this great motor racing spectacle.
The Valencia Street Circuit will be opening its doors free of charge every afternoon during the Grand Prix weekend to residents and visitors alike. For the first time, everyone will have the chance to walk along the finishing straight, have their photograph taken on the starting grid, catch a glimpse of VIPs and guests at the event and show their support for the drivers. In addition, every afternoon, the dock bridge will open so that boats can sail in and out once the racing has finished.
The aim is to make the Valencia Street Circuit a space that is open to the sea, so that boats can arrive during the Grand Prix, and open to the land so that locals and tourists alike can take part in the Formula 1 festivities in Valencia with total freedom and free of charge. There will also be guided tours of the circuit for people with reduced mobility and visual impairment, along with informative sessions and a whole host of other activities taking place around the race.
With this same aim in mind, all information about the times and activities of the Grand Prix will be available in Braille, large print and electronic formats. There will also be stands reserved for disabled people, located in the main section of the circuit. Another new feature of this year's edition of the Telefónica European Formula 1 Grand Prix is the option of following the race from the "Sea-Facing Stands", located just six metres from the track, between the 11th and 12th bend, where fans can see all the racing action up close.
Formula 1 is returning to Valencia with many more different ways to enjoy it.