Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet in Brasília - Track Information & Guides | MotorSportRadar

Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet in Brasília

Location

Brazil Brasília, Federal District, Brazil

Current Local Time

Track Info

Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet - Brasília, Brazil

Historic permanent circuit in Brazil's capital - clockwise - long, wide and fast, with a Formula 1 past and a major 2025 revival

First Race
3 February 1974
The circuit opened with a non-championship Formula 1 race won by Brazilian hero Emerson Fittipaldi.
Current Circuit Length
5.384 km
The rebuilt full circuit is currently the longest active permanent racing layout in Brazil.
Turns
16
Nine right-handers and seven left-handers, with several alternative configurations available.
Historic F1 Race Lap
1:51.620 - Emerson Fittipaldi, 1974
Set in a McLaren M23-Ford on the original 5.476 km circuit during its opening Formula 1 race.
Modern Benchmark
1:57.657 - Nelson Piquet Jr., 2025
Set during Stock Car qualifying on the 5.321 km competition configuration used for the circuit's return to racing.

When was the track built?

Brasília developed a strong motorsport scene soon after the city itself was created. Early races used temporary courses, but growing safety requirements encouraged the construction of a permanent circuit capable of hosting international competition.

The approximately 5.5 km track opened in 1974 and was considered extremely modern for its time. Decades later it became known as the Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet, honouring Brasília-born three-time Formula 1 World Champion Nelson Piquet.

The circuit closed after 2014 and remained out of major competition for more than a decade. A major reconstruction eventually preserved the basic character of the original layout while adding modern asphalt, run-off areas, barriers and alternative configurations. It officially reopened on 27 November 2025.

When was its first race?

The inaugural event on 3 February 1974 was unusually ambitious: a non-championship Formula 1 race featuring several of the world's leading drivers.

Carlos Reutemann put his Brabham on pole with a 1:51.180, but Emerson Fittipaldi won the 40-lap race for McLaren and recorded the fastest lap at 1:51.620. Jody Scheckter finished second and Arturo Merzario third.

What's the circuit like?

  • Fast and wide: The modern surface is approximately 14 to 15 metres wide, giving cars room to run side-by-side and try different racing lines.
  • Long acceleration zones: The longest straight measures approximately 803 metres, while two other major straights measure about 614 m and 502 m.
  • High-speed Turn 1: The opening corner is around 207 metres long and retains approximately five degrees of banking, encouraging drivers to carry considerable speed.

The full circuit has six possible layouts and two variants, allowing organisers to create very different races without leaving the same venue. Modern Stock Car used a 5.321 km competition configuration during the 2025 reopening weekend.

Lap records and benchmarks

  • Formula 1 qualifying: 1:51.180 - Carlos Reutemann, Brabham BT44-Ford, 1974 - original 5.476 km layout.
  • Formula 1 race lap: 1:51.620 - Emerson Fittipaldi, McLaren M23-Ford, 1974 - original 5.476 km layout.
  • Stock Car qualifying: 1:57.657 - Nelson Piquet Jr., Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross, 2025 - 5.321 km configuration.
  • Stock Light qualifying: 2:03.979 - Léo Reis, 2025 - 5.321 km configuration.
  • Stock Car outer circuit practice: 0:59.617 - Tarso Marques, 2008 - 2.919 km layout.

Brasília has used several different circuit configurations across its history. Times from the original full course, modern circuit and 2.919 km outer loop cannot be compared directly.

Why is Brasília famous?

Very few circuits have opened with Formula 1 machinery, but Brasília did exactly that. Emerson Fittipaldi's victory gave the new venue instant international credibility, while Nelson Piquet later became one of the city's greatest sporting names.

Stock Car also has a long relationship with Brasília. The championship first raced here in 1979 and held 39 races before the circuit closed in 2014. From 2002 onward, Stock Car normally used the extremely fast 2.919 km outer loop instead of the full circuit.

The story gained another chapter in November 2025 when racing finally returned. Nelson Piquet Jr. took pole and then won the main Stock Car race at the circuit carrying his father's name.

Why go?

The rebuilt Brasília circuit combines genuine 1970s Formula 1 history with modern racing infrastructure. Its long lap and wide surface also make it very different from many of Brazil's shorter, tighter permanent tracks.

Another advantage is the location. The autódromo sits within Brasília itself, beside the city's major sports complex and close to many of the capital's best-known landmarks, making it unusually convenient for a major race circuit.

Where's the best place to watch?

  • Main straight: Best for race starts, finishes, grid ceremonies and watching teams work around the pit lane.
  • Turn 1: One of the circuit's signature sections, combining banking with a fast entry and the possibility of side-by-side racing.
  • End of the longest straight: Where spectator access allows, this is a strong choice for overtaking as cars arrive at high speed before braking heavily.

Brasília can use several different layouts, so spectator areas and the best viewing positions may change from one championship to another. Check the event map before choosing where to watch.

Transportation & Parking

Getting to Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet (Brasília)

The circuit is in central Brasília, close to Arena BRB Mané Garrincha. Taxi, ride-hailing and local buses are convenient, while the Central metro station is also within walking distance.

Location
SRPN, Brasília
The circuit is in the Plano Piloto area, close to the national stadium and Brasília's central districts.
Circuit Status
Active and reopened
The circuit returned to major racing in November 2025 after an extensive renovation.
Best Option
Taxi, ride-hailing or bus
Unlike many permanent circuits, the venue is close to central Brasília and does not require a long journey outside the city.
Closest Bus Stop
Arena BRB Mané Garrincha ~10 min walk
Several regular Brasília bus routes serve the surrounding area.
Nearest Metro
Central ~17 min walk
Central station is served by Brasília's Orange and Green metro lines.
Nearest Airport
Brasília International Airport (BSB)
Taxi, ride-hailing or a rental car provides the simplest direct journey to the circuit.

Best way to get there

For most visitors, a taxi, ride-hailing service or local bus is the easiest way to reach the Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet. The circuit is much more central than most permanent race tracks and sits close to major Brasília landmarks.

If you are staying around the Plano Piloto, you may only have a short journey to the circuit. Public transport is also practical, particularly if a special event bus is operating.

Tip: The venue may also appear as Autódromo Internacional de Brasília or Autódromo de Brasília BRB in current event information.

Bus & public transport

Regular city buses stop within walking distance of the circuit, making public transport a realistic option for race fans.

  • Arena BRB Mané Garrincha: the closest useful bus stop is around a 10-minute walk from the circuit.
  • W4 Norte / Colégio Militar: another useful stop, approximately 11 minutes away on foot.
  • Regular routes: several Brasília services operate through the surrounding area, so check the best current route from your accommodation.
  • Event buses: major races may introduce direct services from the Rodoviária do Plano Piloto.

A dedicated bus operated between the Rodoviária do Plano Piloto and the circuit for the 2025 Stock Car reopening, but special services should always be treated as event-specific.

Metro

  • Central station: the nearest metro station is approximately 1.3 km from the circuit.
  • Walking time: allow around 17 minutes from Central station in normal conditions.
  • Orange & Green lines: both serve Central, making it useful if your accommodation is elsewhere on Brasília's metro network.
  • Race day: check whether pedestrian access around the circuit changes because of temporary road closures.

Taxi & ride-hailing

  • From central Brasília: taxi or app-based transport is usually one of the simplest door-to-door options.
  • Use the full name: enter Autódromo Internacional de Brasília Nelson Piquet rather than simply “Nelson Piquet”.
  • Large events: normal drop-off points may be replaced by designated taxi and rideshare areas.
  • After the race: expect higher prices, longer waits and heavier traffic immediately after the final session.

Driving & parking

  • Central location: the circuit is reached through Brasília's normal Plano Piloto road network rather than a distant highway journey.
  • Navigation: use the official event entrance supplied with your ticket because different meetings may use different gates.
  • Parking: parking areas can be provided around the venue, but availability and access depend on the event.
  • Road closures: expect temporary traffic controls around major race weekends.

For a large event, public transport or ride-hailing may be easier than driving if parking is limited or surrounding roads are restricted.

Brasília airport

  • Brasília International Airport (BSB): the main airport serving the Brazilian capital.
  • Airport → circuit: taxi, ride-hailing or a rental car provides the simplest direct transfer.
  • Staying centrally: visitors can stay around the Plano Piloto and make a short city journey to the circuit each day.
  • Public transport: airport buses and other city connections can take you towards central Brasília before you continue to the circuit.

The circuit is back

After being closed to normal circuit racing for more than a decade, Autódromo Internacional de Brasília reopened in November 2025. The track received new asphalt, drainage, safety barriers, gravel traps and other major safety improvements.

The redevelopment is continuing in phases, so some permanent facilities may continue to change as new boxes, medical facilities and other areas are completed.

Event-day tips

  • Check transport announcements: major meetings may introduce special buses, road closures and dedicated entrances.
  • Leave early: the central location is convenient, but large crowds can create heavy traffic around the sports complex.
  • Check your gate: do not assume every ticket category uses the same entrance.
  • Prepare for the sun: Brasília can be hot, sunny and very dry, so bring water and sun protection.
  • Plan your return: metro, buses and ride-hailing can all become much busier immediately after racing finishes.

Accessibility

If you require accessible parking, step-free spectator access or assistance, check the information supplied for your specific event. The circuit has recently been redeveloped and spectator entrances, parking areas and temporary facilities can differ between meetings.

Bus routes, special event services, parking, entrances and traffic restrictions can change between race weekends. Check the official event information and current Brasília transport details shortly before travelling.

Nearby Activities

Things to do around Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet (Brasília, Brazil)

Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet sits in the heart of Brasília, unusually close to the attractions of Brazil’s capital. Whether you’re visiting for Stock Car, endurance racing or another national event, futuristic architecture, museums, huge parks and Lake Paranoá are only a short journey from the circuit.

Motorsport at Brasília
Stock Car + endurance + touring cars
The revived circuit hosts major Brazilian championships, including Stock Car, Turismo Nacional and endurance competition.
Main circuit
5.384 km • 16 corners
The clockwise layout has six possible configurations and three major straights, making it one of Brazil’s longest active circuits.
Reopened
November 2025
Originally opened in 1974, the circuit returned after more than a decade closed following a major safety and surface upgrade.
Location
Central Brasília
Unlike many race circuits, Brasília’s track sits close to hotels, shopping and the city’s famous Monumental Axis.

Family-friendly highlights nearby

  • Parque da Cidade: One of Brasília’s largest recreation areas has cycling and walking paths, playgrounds and huge open spaces - ideal when children need to burn off energy away from the grandstands.
  • Brasília Planetarium: A convenient indoor option near the Monumental Axis, with astronomy sessions and educational activities. Check the current programme before visiting.
  • TV Tower: Ride up to the observation deck for an easy-to-understand view of Brasília’s unusual planned layout and its long Monumental Axis.

Architecture & rainy-day stops

  • Cathedral of Brasília: Oscar Niemeyer’s striking modern cathedral is one of the capital’s most recognisable buildings and is easy to combine with other central sights.
  • JK Memorial: Learn how Juscelino Kubitschek helped create Brasília and see photographs, documents and objects connected with the former president and the construction of the capital.
  • National Congress & Three Powers Square: Walk through the monumental government district to see some of Brazil’s most famous modern architecture.

Eat & drink after the racing

  • Pontão do Lago Sul: A simple choice for groups, with numerous restaurants and cafés beside Lake Paranoá and plenty of space for an evening walk.
  • Try food from across Brazil: Brasília attracted people from every region of the country, so restaurants range from northeastern Brazilian cooking to churrasco and Minas Gerais specialities.
  • Asa Sul & Asa Norte: These central neighbourhoods have a wide choice of cafés, bars and restaurants without requiring a long trip from the circuit.

Get outdoors around Brasília

  • Lake Paranoá: Brasília’s huge artificial lake is popular for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, sailing and waterside walks.
  • Parque da Cidade: Rent a bike or simply walk through the park for an easy morning activity before heading to the racetrack.
  • JK Bridge: The sweeping bridge is one of Brasília’s modern landmarks and looks especially impressive around sunset from the lakeside.

Easy trips if you’re extending your stay

  • Chapada Imperial: Head beyond the urban area for cerrado vegetation, waterfalls and guided nature trails. It works best as a dedicated day trip.
  • Pirenópolis: Around two hours from Brasília, this historic town combines colonial streets, waterfalls and restaurants in the surrounding Goiás countryside.
  • Brasília architecture day: If you are short on time, stay in the capital and combine the Cathedral, Congress, Three Powers Square, JK Memorial and lakeside attractions in one sightseeing day.

Good to know on event weekends

  • The circuit is active again: After reopening in late 2025, Brasília has a busy 2026 programme including endurance and touring-car meetings.
  • Stock Car returns in September: The 2026 Stock Car Pro Series is scheduled to race in Brasília on 27 September.
  • Check the configuration: The renovated facility has six layouts, so the part of the circuit used and the best spectator positions can change between events.
  • Prepare for dry weather: Brasília’s dry season can mean strong sunshine, low humidity and dusty conditions. Carry water, sunscreen and a hat for long outdoor sessions.

Race schedules, circuit configurations, spectator access, attraction opening hours and outdoor activities can change - check current information before you travel.

Hotels & Accommodation