The Jacarepaguá race track, also known as the Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet, was a motorsport circuit located in the Jacarepaguá neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The circuit was built in 1977 and was named after Brazilian racing legend Nelson Piquet, who won three Formula One world championships in the 1980s.
The Jacarepaguá circuit was a popular destination for motorsport events, including the Brazilian Grand Prix of Formula One, the Brazilian Grand Prix of MotoGP, and the Brazilian Stock Car Championship. The circuit was known for its fast, flowing layout, with several high-speed corners and a long back straight that allowed drivers to reach speeds of over 300 km/h.
In addition to its racing facilities, the Jacarepaguá circuit also had a variety of other amenities, including a hotel, a convention center, and a shopping mall. The circuit was easily accessible from the city center, making it a popular destination for motorsport fans and tourists alike.
However, despite its popularity, the Jacarepaguá circuit faced challenges over the years. In 2012, the circuit was demolished to make way for the construction of facilities for the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro. The demolition of the circuit was met with disappointment from motorsport fans, who saw the circuit as an important part of Brazil’s rich racing history.
While the Jacarepaguá circuit is no longer in existence, its legacy lives on in the memories of those who raced on its challenging layout and in the history of Brazilian motorsport. The circuit was a symbol of Brazil’s passion for racing and its ability to produce world-class drivers like Nelson Piquet and Ayrton Senna.
Despite the loss of the Jacarepaguá circuit, Brazil still has a thriving motorsport scene, with a variety of racing events held throughout the year. From stock car racing to rally, there are plenty of opportunities for motorsport fans to experience the thrill of racing in Brazil.