A 70th Macau Grand Prix placed under the sign of passion and youth

The Macau Grand Prix is ​​definitely an event apart. Drivers, team bosses, journalists, everyone agrees that this meeting is one of the essential events in motorsport.

It must be recognized that all the ingredients come together to make Macau a myth. First of all there is this Guia circuit and its 6,120 kilometers. A challenge for all those involved, aware that the slightest deviation often results in very serious consequences. On the right as on the left, they are surrounded by safety rails or the concrete of the walls. A small mistake and an accident is practically guaranteed. Then there is location.

The Macau Grand Prix takes place in the city and on the shores of the China Sea. A unique setting, for a meeting that is just as unique. “ I love it ! Isack Hadjar told us recently. It is one of the rare trails that includes four sectors. It's super long. Sectors 2 and 3 are crucial, because they are the most complete portions, with slow and fast turns, constant passage as close as possible to walls, braking while supporting, and risks of blocking at the front and rear. 'back. Sector 1 is simply two flat out straight lines. The last sector is made up of two fast turns. Casually, it's an urban circuit, but the suction effect works strong. You must not be hindered in sectors 2 and 3. No escape, therefore no room for error. »

An audience of enthusiasts but also very young

And last but not least, what makes the Macau Grand Prix unique: the public. The first two days of this second weekend of racing in the former Portuguese colony only confirmed the fact that the spectators from Macanese, and the surrounding area, are real enthusiasts.

Usually, GT competitions, let's face it, do not attract the masses. We can put the F3 apart because all the rounds are contested at the curtain raiser of the F1, which necessarily helps with the popularity rating. But here in Macau, the event is such that spectators do not waste time. The stands are quickly taken by storm. After a calm start to the day this Thursday at the time of the first free practice sessions, some stands were well-stocked like those at the Lisbon corner in the afternoon.

©Macau Grand Prix

At the start/finish straight line, cries of joy were heard at the time of each driver's exit, whether in touring, GT or Formula 3. Screams from a multitude of children who came primary schools nearby. Everyone was distinguished by tracksuits of a different color. Proof that Macau attracts beautiful people, from the oldest to the youngest.

Friday for the final tests and qualifying, the crowds were felt from the early hours. At the end of the day, for the most important sessions, we saw good people there. A very good omen for this Saturday during which the first races of the various FIA World Cups will be contested.

©Macau Grand Prix

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