Silverstone new layout will be quick

Silverstone set to become one of the fastest circuits on MotoGP calendar

Track modifications at Silverstone Circuit look set to make it one of the fastest circuits on the MotoGP calendar when the FIM MotoGP World Championship heads to the iconic Northamptonshire venue from 2010 onwards. The new circuit, which will feature a spectacular new section of track running from the approach at Abbey corner to a tightening 'Arrowhead' hairpin at the inside of Becketts, will measure 5.67 kilometres in length - 0.53 kilometres longer than the existing 5.14 kilometre Grand Prix circuit.

Scientifically measured data*, based on mathematical simulations, has calculated that the average lap time for MotoGP riders around the new track would be 1:51.456, racing at an average speed of 182kph (113mph) - 3kph faster than Phillip Island, which is currently the fastest circuit in MotoGP.

The fast and flowing new track, which is subject to final homologation, looks set to be equally quick for four wheeled motor sport. Despite the new circuit being more than half a kilometre longer than the existing Grand Prix circuit, simulated data has shown that lap times for a current Formula 1 car would only be fractionally slower. A simulated lap of the new circuit would take 1:27.761 in an F1 car, at an average speed of 228kph (142mph).

* Scientific data, based on mathematical simulations and interpolations, provided by HOK Sport, the world's leading sports architecture firm.

-credit: silverstone