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Formula 1 has a rich history, having raced at more than 70 circuits worldwide, with iconic venues like Silverstone and Monza consistently hosting events through the decades. However, not all tracks enjoyed the same level of success and some have been permanently removed from the calendar for various reasons, including safety concerns and financial issues.
A total of 10 tracks have hosted only one Formula 1 Grand Prix throughout the series’ 75-year history. These venues were often selected during challenging times, such as global health crises, or as part of efforts to expand the sport’s reach. Yet, F1 ultimately chose not to return to several of these locations due to everything from inadequate facilities to disappointing ticket sales.
Pescara Circuit – 1957 Pescara GP
The Pescara Circuit, located along the Adriatic coast of Italy, is noted as the longest layout that Formula 1 has ever utilized, yet it hosted only one race in 1957. Stretching an astonishing 16 miles, the circuit featured over 30 corners and two extensive straights.
During this singular event, Argentine legend Juan Manuel Fangio secured pole position but was defeated by Stirling Moss in a Vanwall. Concerns for driver safety loomed large during and after the race, leading Enzo Ferrari to withdraw his team from competition. The ensuing fears prompted organizers to downgrade the track to Formula 2 races only after a two-year hiatus.
Ain-Diab, 1958 Moroccan GP
The following year, F1 ventured into Morocco with a street circuit that connected Casablanca and Azemmour, featuring just under five miles of track. While it hosted a non-championship event in 1957, the 1958 Moroccan GP was significant as it determined the drivers’ championship, with Mike Hawthorn finishing second, earning enough points to secure the title.
Despite its historic importance, the Ain-Diab circuit was marred by tragedy when Stuart Lewis-Evans suffered life-threatening injuries in a crash, contributing to the discontinuation of races there due to ongoing safety concerns.
AVUS, 1959 German GP
Known for its bizarre layout, the Automobil-Verkehrs-und Übungsstraße (AVUS) situated in Germany held its first F1 race in 1959. This circuit featured two sharp 180-degree turns connected by parallel straights. While it facilitated high-speed racing—often reaching 117 mph—the limited engagement for spectators and its treacherous banked corner earned it widespread criticism.
The inherent dangers, compounded with the political push to include the circuit in the F1 calendar, led to its removal, which was likely welcomed by many drivers, including Stirling Moss, who referred to it disparagingly.
Circuito de Monsanto, 1959 Portuguese GP
Before the Portuguese Grand Prix found a permanent home in Portimão and Estoril, the series utilized a street circuit in Lisbon in 1959. The 3.4-mile route, favored by sports car enthusiasts, saw Stirling Moss clinch victory, ahead of his teammate Masten Gregory. However, it was overshadowed by a serious crash involving Jack Brabham that raised alarms about safety.
Ultimately, the circuit was abandoned due to its inconsistent track quality, dangerous corners, and narrow sections, though it remained in use for other racing series until the 1970s.
Sebring International Raceway, 1959 United States GP
Sebring is celebrated for endurance racing today but once hosted F1 as well. The track layout in Florida, known for its 5.2 miles and 12 turns, was deemed inconsistent and problematic for the performance of F1 cars, contributing to its short-lived inclusion on the F1 calendar.
Riverside International Raceway, 1960 United States GP
The Riverside International Raceway in California hosted the 1960 US Grand Prix, but like Sebring, it faced low attendance with only about 5,000 spectators showing up. The underwhelming crowd numbers and subsequent financial losses led to the race’s removal from future calendars.
Zeltweg Airfield, 1964 Austrian GP
Zeltweg presented another unique experience, hosting the 1964 Austrian GP amid its temporary circuit layout. Despite favorable performances, driver feedback regarding the track’s narrow and bumpy conditions ultimately led to its exclusion from subsequent events, shifting F1’s attention to more permanent facilities.
Bugatti Circuit, 1967 French GP
The Bugatti Circuit trialed the French GP before F1 shifted towards more established tracks. Despite its location within the iconic Circuit de la Sarthe, the event attracted a meager crowd, and the complexities of the layout meant it was short-lived in the F1 arsenal.
Fair Park Circuit, 1984 Dallas GP
The 1984 Dallas GP in Fair Park is often remembered for the searing heat that led to track deterioration and complaints from drivers regarding its severe layout. Coupled with low attendance and financial difficulties, it marked another failed attempt at establishing a firm F1 footing in the United States.
Donington Park, 1993 European GP
The 1993 European GP at Donington Park became notable thanks to Ayrton Senna’s spectacular opening lap, showcasing F1’s intense action. However, despite hopes for future events at Donington, infrastructural challenges hindered potential returns.
Mugello Circuit, 2020 Tuscan GP
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, Mugello made its F1 debut in 2020 as part of a reconfigured calendar. While praised for its contribution during challenging times, the absence of adequate run-off areas and ongoing commitments to other Italian tracks complicated any prospects for its regular inclusion in subsequent seasons.
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