Parque O'Higgins Circuit

The Parque O'Higgins Circuit, located in the heart of Santiago, Chile, is a temporary street circuit constructed within the city's largest park. While motorsport events within the park have occurred intermittently over the years, the modern iteration of the circuit was established in 2018, primarily to host Formula E races. The circuit provides a unique blend of tight, technical sections and faster, flowing corners, testing driver precision and car setup.

The track layout, varying slightly year to year, typically features a mix of 90-degree turns, challenging chicanes, and a few longer straights allowing for overtaking opportunities. A particularly notable section is often the complex around the Movistar Arena, demanding precise car placement to maintain momentum. The circuit is characterized by its relatively flat terrain, minimizing significant elevation changes, which puts emphasis on mechanical grip and braking performance.

Typically, the circuit length is around 2.3 to 2.5 kilometers, with an asphalt surface laid specifically for the event. The primary racing event held at Parque O'Higgins is the Santiago E-Prix, a round of the FIA Formula E World Championship. The circuit has also hosted support races and demonstrations during the E-Prix weekend.

What makes Parque O'Higgins Circuit unique is its location within a public park, providing a vibrant atmosphere and accessibility for spectators. The temporary nature of the track also presents a challenge, as the surface conditions can evolve rapidly throughout the race weekend. The unforgiving concrete walls lining the circuit punish any mistakes, making it a demanding test for drivers. While specific track records may vary depending on the configuration used each year, the fastest laps in Formula E are closely contested, reflecting the circuit's challenging nature. The circuit continues to be a staple in the Formula E calendar, offering exciting racing in the heart of Chile's capital.