Kymi Ring CW
KymiRing is a modern motorsport facility located in Finland, featuring a main racetrack approximately 4.5 to 4.65 kilometers in length with 21 curves (some sources cite 17 bends - 11 right-hand turns and 6 left-hand turns) and an altitude difference of 18 meters. The circuit takes advantage of undulating terrain with an 18-meter difference in height between the highest and lowest points. The main straight measures 1.1 kilometers - the longest Grand Prix straight in Europe.
The main track is negotiated in a clockwise direction. The camber of the bends varies at different points with a maximum of 10% on three bends, increasing mechanical grip for adjacent driving and overtaking possibilities. The track meets the requirements of FIM Grade A classification for motorcycle racing and has been designed in accordance with FIA Grade 2 classification. By modifying the safety areas, it could be adapted to meet Formula 1 requirements. In July 2017, Kymi Ring and Dorna Sports signed a five-year contract for organizing the Finnish motorcycle Grand Prix. However, the MotoGP event was removed from the 2022 World Championship season due to incomplete homologation works and geopolitical concerns. The circuit was purchased by a Hungarian consortium in February 2024, indicating continued commitment to developing the facility as a premier Northern European motorsport venue.
The clockwise configuration at Kymi Ring in Finland represents the standard direction for this modern Nordic facility that opened in 2019, delivering 4.6 kilometers of FIA Grade 2 certified challenges through dramatic elevation changes and technical sections near Kausala. Running clockwise emphasizes the circuit's 73-meter elevation difference that ranks it among Europe's most vertically demanding circuits, with blind crests and compression zones creating challenges uncommon at flatter European venues. The layout serves Finland's motorsport community with professional-grade infrastructure in a nation with strong rally heritage but limited permanent road course options.
Operating clockwise at Kymi Ring showcases Finland's commitment to international-standard circuit racing infrastructure, with the FIA Grade 2 certification enabling the facility to host major championships while serving domestic racing series and driving schools. Nordic climate creates short racing seasons with the facility operating primarily May through September, avoiding Finland's harsh winters. The clockwise flow has established itself as the definitive direction since the 2019 opening, with the layout's dramatic elevation and technical variety creating a unique Nordic racing experience distinct from flatter Central European circuits.
