As Formula 1 continues its march into glitzier corners of the globe, a handful of circuits remain its beating heart. These are places where history hangs in the air and the racing carries echoes of eras past. For those drawn to the sport’s rich lineage, here are ten venues that have endured—and long may they stay:

1. Autodromo Nazionale di Monza, Italy

Debut: 1950

Monza is less a racetrack than a monument. Tucked into Milan’s parkland, its century-long legacy carries the weight of speed, sacrifice and scarlet red. The ghosts of champions line the straights, and the passion of the Tifosi fills the air.

2. Circuit de Monaco, Monaco

Debut: 1950

It shouldn’t work, but it does. Monaco remains Formula 1’s most improbable yet iconic venue. Here, cars barely fit the circuit, and yet the spectacle—especially for qualifying fans—is unmatched. From Casino Square to the tunnel, this is motorsport as theatre.

3. Silverstone, United Kingdom

Debut: 1950

Built on old runways and pure enthusiasm, Silverstone represents the beating heart of British motorsport as the first-ever F1 championship race venue in history. It may lack topography, but its layout demands precision and respect. Come for the racing, stay for the chip vans and local crowd knowledge.

4. Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium

Debut: 1950

Spa is sublime. With rain sweeping through the Ardennes and corners like Eau Rouge challenging the brave, it is arguably the finest pure driver’s circuit on the calendar. Racing here feels like nature is part of the field.

5. Suzuka Circuit, Japan

Debut: 1987

A driver’s delight and a fan’s dream. With its unique figure-eight design and razor-sharp corners, Suzuka balances elegance and punishment in equal measure. Race weekend here offers order, reverence and a culture-rich backdrop that few others can match.

6. Interlagos (Autódromo José Carlos Pace), Brazil

Debut: 1973

Always a wildcard, Interlagos delivers high-stakes drama in a city that moves to its own rhythm. With unpredictable weather and a naturally raked amphitheatre layout, it is the site of many late-season fireworks. Expect noise, emotion and perhaps some rain.

7. Hungaroring, Hungary

Debut: 1986

The Hungaroring’s arrival in 1986 behind the Iron Curtain was a geopolitical flex. Since then, it’s become a beloved mainstay. Tight, dusty and tactically demanding, it’s an old-school track that rewards the patient and punishes the overambitious—come for the paprikash, stay for the overtakes.

8. Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, Canada

Debut: 1978

A goregous, scenic slice of Montreal set on a man-made island, this somewhat underrated circuit often flips the script with unexpected weather and inspired driving. Its name—originally the Île Notre-Dame Circuit—honours a lost national hero, and its corners reward guts. Montreal itself offers warmth, charm and the best post-race poutine you’ll find.

9. Red Bull Ring, Austria

Debut: 1970

Nestled in the Styrian Alps, the Red Bull Ring offers a clean, no-nonsense racing experience. The circuit is brisk, beautifully maintained and deceptively challenging. With high-end hospitality and postcard backdrops, it’s Formula 1’s version of alpine minimalism.

10. Circuit Zandvoort, Netherlands

Debut: 1952

Resurrected from the archives with Dutch flair, Zandvoort thrives in the modern era. Its undulating layout and coastal setting feel vintage, while the Oranje-clad crowds bring a carnival air. A stone’s throw from Amsterdam, it’s both retro and raucous.

Honourable Mentions

Imola and Mexico City deserve a nod for their longevity and spirit. Meanwhile, Barcelona and Melbourne continue their march towards modern classic status.