The Art of Circuit Design (with Driven International)

Just what all goes in to design and erect an FIA/FIM-homologated motor-racing circuit that is used for Formula 1, MotoGP, Formula E & other series? What are the design, legal, practical, civil and even human resource requirements needed?

In this episode of the Inside Line F1 Podcast, Soumil Arora spoke to Ben Wilshire and Dan Selby from Driven International, the company that was responsible for the most-recent changes to the Yas Marina Circuit (for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix).

Driven International also designed the Hyderabad Street Circuit in India (for Formula E's Hyderabad ePrix), the Mandalika International Street Circuit in Indonesia (for MotoGP & Superbike World Championship) among others.

In Formula 1, the focus always is on car design, but in this April break, we decided to focus on circuit design. After all, Romain Grosjean famously said that it was cheaper to re-design circuits than the racing cars as the sport chased 'ease of overtaking'. 

(Season 2023, Episode 15)

Follow our host on Twitter: Soumil Arora

Image courtesy: Formula 1

**Navigating the Complexities of Circuit Design: A Conversation with Driven International**

In this episode of the Inside Line F1 Podcast, host Soumil Arora engages in a captivating discussion with Ben Wiltshire, Managing Director, and Dan Selby, Project Leader at Driven International, a company renowned for designing and constructing world-class motor racing circuits. Ben and Dan share their insights and experiences in creating iconic circuits like the Yas Marina Circuit (Abu Dhabi Grand Prix), the Hyderabad Street Circuit (Formula E's Hyderabad ePrix), and the Mandalika International Street Circuit (MotoGP & Superbike World Championship).

**The Essence of a Good Circuit**

When asked about the key elements that define a good circuit, Ben emphasizes the importance of driver feedback, undulation, and a mix of high-speed corners and technical sequences. He believes that a circuit should provide a thrilling driving experience while also considering the perspectives of spectators, officials, and stakeholders. Dan adds that identifying constraints and working within them is crucial, as circuit designers often face numerous limitations and must prioritize safety and functionality.

**Striking the Right Balance**

Ben and Dan discuss the challenges of balancing the needs of various stakeholders, including drivers, fans, and organizers. They explain that while pleasing everyone is nearly impossible, they prioritize the driving experience and ensure that the circuit layout takes precedence over constraints. They also highlight the importance of using simulators to assess the viability and enjoyment factor of a circuit design before construction begins.

**The Evolution of Hyderabad Street Circuit**

The conversation delves into the intricate process of designing the Hyderabad Street Circuit. Ben and Dan reveal that the initial T-shaped layout was conceived due to safety concerns and the need to avoid fast corners near water bodies and buildings. However, they later modified the design to incorporate a section of picturesque parkland, creating a unique and visually appealing circuit with two distinct characteristics. The project involved extensive collaboration with local authorities, obtaining approvals, and accommodating changes to ensure the circuit met FIA safety standards.

**Driver Input and Simulation**

Ben and Dan emphasize the significance of driver feedback in the circuit design process. They engage with drivers, particularly during events like the Indian Racing League, to gather insights and improve the track layout. They also utilize driver-in-the-loop simulators to test and refine the geometry of corners, ensuring that the circuit provides an exhilarating driving experience.

**The Yas Marina Circuit Transformation**

The discussion turns to the recent modifications made to the Yas Marina Circuit for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Ben and Dan explain that the goal was to improve overtaking opportunities and create a more exciting race. They widened certain corners, added a chicane, and reprofiled several sections of the track to encourage closer racing. The changes were extensively tested using simulation tools, and feedback from drivers was incorporated to finalize the design.

**The Art of Circuit Design**

Ben and Dan conclude the conversation by reflecting on the artistic and technical aspects of circuit design. They express their passion for creating circuits that are both visually stunning and enjoyable to drive. They also acknowledge the challenges of working within constraints and the need to balance the demands of different stakeholders. Ultimately, their aim is to deliver circuits that leave a lasting legacy and contribute to the growth of motorsport worldwide. ## Designing and Constructing Formula One Circuits: A Conversation with Driven International

### Introduction:

In this episode of the Inside Line F1 Podcast, host Soumil Arora engages in a captivating conversation with Ben Wilshire and Dan Selby, representatives of Driven International, a company renowned for designing and constructing world-class motor-racing circuits. The discussion centers around the intricate process of designing and erecting FIA/FIM-homologated motor-racing circuits used for Formula 1, MotoGP, Formula E, and various other racing series.

### Key Points:

- **Circuit Design:** The design of a motor-racing circuit involves meticulous consideration of numerous factors, including safety, speed, runoff areas, and potential impact with barriers. Driven International utilizes driver-in-the-loop simulation to analyze the intuitive feel of the circuit, driver feedback, and data related to braking, apex speed, and overtaking opportunities.

- **Yas Marina Circuit Redesign:** The redesign of the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, which hosts the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, serves as a prime example of Driven International's expertise. The company faced the challenge of enhancing the circuit's racing capabilities while working within existing constraints, such as asphalt runoffs and drainage systems. The redesigned Turn 5, featuring a late apex and a wider design, aimed to create different racing lines and overtaking opportunities. Additionally, a new 5% banked corner, Turn 9, was introduced to facilitate closer following and higher speeds.

- **Hyderabad Street Circuit:** Driven International also played a pivotal role in designing the Hyderabad Street Circuit in India, a venue for the Formula E Hyderabad ePrix. The project required careful consideration of operational aspects, ensuring that the circuit could accommodate various configurations and track day activities without disruption. The team collaborated closely with the circuit's operations team to understand their needs and enhance the overall functionality of the facility.

- **Team Dynamics and Recruitment:** Driven International's team comprises a diverse mix of professionals, including architects, civil engineers, motorsport engineers, and project managers. The company seeks individuals passionate about delivering world-class projects and willing to go the extra mile. While some team members are ardent motorsport enthusiasts, others are driven by the technical challenges and the satisfaction of creating highly precise engineering projects.

### Conclusion:

The podcast highlights the intricate process of designing and constructing motor-racing circuits, showcasing the expertise of Driven International in navigating complex constraints and delivering exceptional results. The discussion emphasizes the importance of collaboration, stakeholder involvement, and a skilled team in creating circuits that enhance the racing experience and contribute to the success of major racing series worldwide.