The Brno Circuit, also known as the Masaryk circuit or Masarykring, stands as a cornerstone of motorsport in the Czech Republic, boasting a rich history that spans nearly a century. From its origins as a challenging street circuit to its modern, purpose-built facility, the track has hosted an array of prestigious international racing events, attracting top teams and drivers throughout its evolution. Named after Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, the first president
of Czechoslovakia, the circuit is not only one of the oldest motorsport venues but also holds the distinction of hosting more motorcycle championships than any other track globally, second only to the TT Circuit Assen.
The Genesis of a Racing Icon: Early Street Circuits
The story of the Brno Circuit began in 1930, when a group of local figures, including physician and racing driver Otakar Bittmann, Bedřich Soffer, and Miloš Bondy, initiated its establishment. The original layout was an anti-clockwise street circuit, stretching approximately 29.194 kilometers (18.140 miles) through public roads on the outskirts of Brno. The start and finish line was located in Bosonohy, with the track winding east past Kamenny, then north past the Bohunice University Campus in Kejbaly, and continuing through the villages of Libusino, Kohoutovice, and Žebětín, before heading out to Ostrovacice, through Veselka, and finally returning via a series of fast straights and kinks. This challenging configuration quickly gained international recognition, drawing some of the era's most prominent drivers and teams from 1930 to 1937.
In 1949, the circuit hosted the Czechoslovakian Grand Prix, an event that was part of Grand Prix motor racing, which later evolved into Formula One. This particular race, held on September 25, 1949, was unique as it was run clockwise on a shorter 17.800-kilometer (11.060-mile) layout. This revised track turned right at Veselka, bypassed Ostrovacice, and entered Žebětín from the south instead of the west. Despite attracting an impressive crowd of over 400,000 spectators, this marked the last Grand Prix for cars on the old circuit. All the public roads that comprised these original circuits are still in existence as of 2026, a testament to their enduring presence in the region's landscape.
The Motorcycle Grand Prix Era and Circuit Reductions
Following the 1949 car Grand Prix, the Brno Circuit shifted its focus to motorcycle racing. Beginning in 1950, it became the host of the Czechoslovakian motorcycle Grand Prix, an event that gained world championship status in 1965. As motorcycle technology advanced and safety concerns evolved, the circuit underwent several reductions in length. In 1964, the track was shortened to 13.941 kilometers (8.663 miles), completely bypassing Žebětín and incorporating a new through-road that provided a quicker route to Kohoutovice. This modification aimed to enhance safety and improve the racing experience for the growing motorcycle events.
Further changes were implemented in 1975, when the circuit was reduced to 10.921 kilometers (6.786 miles). This iteration saw the track exiting Kohoutovice from the south, bypassing Libusino and Kejbaly, and cutting directly through Kamenny before rejoining the main road back to Bosonohy. These progressive reductions reflect the ongoing efforts to adapt the circuit to the demands of modern motorsport while preserving its historical significance. The European Touring Car series also visited the circuit in the 1980s, showcasing its versatility beyond motorcycle racing.
The Modern Era: A Purpose-Built Facility and International Recognition
The most significant transformation for the Brno Circuit occurred in 1987 with the opening of the new, purpose-built circuit. This modern facility allowed the circuit to continue its legacy of hosting major international events. The annual Motorcycle Grand Prix of the Czech Republic remains the circuit's most important event, having been held there since 1950 and recognized as the most famous motor race in the country. It has been a part of the World Grand Prix in various periods, including 1965–1982, 1987–1991, 1993–2020, and is scheduled to return from 2025–2029.
Beyond motorcycle racing, the new Brno Circuit has also welcomed a diverse range of international championships. These include the FIA World Touring Car Championship, FIA GT1 World Championship, Formula Two, and the Superbike World Championship. While the Czech Republic Motorcycle Grand Prix was historically more of a promoter event than a direct profit-raiser, it has adapted to modern regulations, especially since tobacco advertising was banned in 2007, aligning with other MotoGP events. As of August 2023, the circuit is owned by the Czech company Shakai, ensuring its continued operation and development as a premier motorsport venue in the heart of Europe.
