Argomenti trattati
The opening of A1 Motor Park near Samokov marks a major development for Bulgarian motor sport. Attended by senior figures from the governing body, the venue introduces a 3.91km layout that carries FIA Grade 3 approval and becomes the first circuit of this level on the Balkan Peninsula. With a 900‑metre main straight and capacity for 20,000 spectators, the track is intended to host competitive national and regional racing while raising the area’s visibility for teams, fans and commercial partners.
The complex bundles spectator amenities and operational infrastructure into a single modern site. On the paddock side there is a covered paddock area and a professional pit building, while hospitality suites and a panoramic race control tower complete the offering. Homologated also to FIM Grade B, the facility is designed to support both four‑wheel and two‑wheel competition, and it already features on calendars, including the Bulgarian Endurance Series 999 in April and multiple rounds of the BMW Cup 2026.
The track and its capabilities
The circuit’s 3.91km configuration delivers a varied rhythm of corners and straights intended to challenge a wide range of vehicles and drivers. The designation of FIA Grade 3 means the venue meets international standards that allow high‑quality national and regional events; homologation here refers to the formal approval process confirming the track’s compliance with safety, surface and operational criteria. The long main straight encourages high‑speed sections and overtaking opportunities, while run‑off zones, barriers and marshaling posts have been installed to the levels required for certified international activity.
Design elements and operational features
Design choices prioritize safety, serviceability and the experience of teams and spectators. The control complex includes a state‑of‑the‑art race control tower with full circuit visibility, enabling officials to manage events efficiently. Behind the scenes, the pit building and covered paddock support logistics, technical inspections and hospitality functions. The venue’s configuration also allows flexible event layouts, making it suitable for endurance races, single‑make cups and motorcycle series under its FIM Grade B approval, while meeting the needs of broadcasters and paddock operations.
Voices and vision
Senior officials described the project as a milestone for the region. The president of the sport governing body welcomed the new circuit as an example of expanding access to motor sport globally and praised the local teams for their ambition. The FIA Vice President for Sport (Europe) highlighted the facility’s potential to become a regional hub for racing excellence, noting the professional standards of the infrastructure. Local organisers and the track’s management framed the venue as a tool to grow domestic competition, attract international entrants and develop the next generation of Bulgarian drivers.
Regional effects and future activity
Beyond the racetrack, the opening of A1 Motor Park is expected to stimulate the local economy and help build a more sustainable racing ecosystem in the Balkans. Proximity to Sofia positions the venue to draw visiting teams and spectators who combine events with travel and hospitality spending. The track’s inclusion on early calendars — such as the Bulgarian Endurance Series 999 in April and the BMW Cup 2026 rounds — signals immediate use while creating opportunities for further international series to consider the site for test days, championships and development programmes.
Governance and contact
The circuit opens under the watch of established motor sport bodies: the organising club and the international federation that develops rules and standards for safe, fair competition. The FIA continues to promote safety, sustainability and wider access across motor sport while supporting new venues that meet stringent criteria. For media enquiries, the contact provided is Omar Sharif, Sport Communications Manager, at [email protected]. The broader federation profile emphasises a long history of regulation and advocacy for the sport, aiming to ensure that new facilities both elevate competitive standards and contribute to community development.