Donington Park

One of the most internationally renowned and historically significant circuits in the world, Donington Park is firmly established at the heart of British motorsport. Built on the former grounds of neighbouring Donington Hall, the East Midlands venue is the UK’s oldest operational former Grand Prix venue.

Motorsport first arrived at the track on Whit Monday in 1931 on a course following the access roads for Donington Hall. The track was widened in 1933, made a permanent facility, and hosted Grands Prix featuring the legendary Silver Arrows from Mercedes-Benz and Auto Union prior to the onset of World War II.

Racing returned in 1977 under the stewardship of Tom Wheatcroft and the circuit quickly reclaimed its place as one of Europe’s premier motorsport venues. With the addition of the Melbourne Loop in 1985, Grand Prix motorcycle racing arrived at the venue and remained there for 23 years. The circuit then hosted the first ever round of the Superbike World Championship in 1988, an event still held at the track today.

Arguably the most famous event at the restored circuit was the 1993 European Formula 1 Grand Prix, which was dominated by Ayrton Senna in changeable conditions. Senna’s opening lap is still described by many as the best in the sport’s history. An unrealised attempt to bring F1 back to Donington ensured that racing ceased once again at the end of 2009. Kevin Wheatcroft, son of Tom, rescued the circuit the following year, allowing competition to resume in the autumn of 2010. 

MSV acquired the circuit in 2017, making significant improvements following a winter programme of major investment. Initial changes included extensive resurfacing of the paddock, new toilet blocks and an updated office building. Also introduced were a new grandstand overlooking Hollywood corner plus Garage 39 - a stunning new bar and restaurant in the heart of the paddock. More improvements followed in 2019 with the construction of a new main pedestrian entrance, improved marshal posts, campsite upgrades and a new Pit Lane Suite.

As well as international motorcycle racing, the venue hosts all of the UK’s major two and four wheeled series including the British Superbike Championship, British Touring Car Championship, and British GT Championship. Other special highlights include the Donington Historic Festival and Convoy in the Park truck show. 

The future of this magnificent circuit is now assured and its reputation grows by the day.