Circuit Paul Ricard — Roulage moto piste 🇫🇷

Motorcycle track day at the Paul Ricard circuit

The Paul Ricard circuit, located in Le Castellet in the Var (Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur), is one of the most iconic circuits in Europe for motorcycle track days. Inaugurated on April 19, 1970, it benefits from an exceptional Mediterranean climate that allows riding almost all year round. With its 12-meter wide track, innovative run-off areas and multiple configurations, the Paul Ricard circuit offers an ideal setting for motorcycle track days, whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider.

History of the Paul Ricard circuit

Built in just 300 days on the initiative of Paul Ricard, the Le Castellet circuit opened its doors in April 1970 with an official motorcycle christening in November of the same year. It quickly established itself as a mecca of French motorsport.

The circuit hosted the French Formula 1 Grand Prix from 1971 to 1990 (14 editions), then made its return to the F1 calendar from 2019 to 2022. On the motorcycle side, the history is just as rich: the French Motorcycle Grand Prix was held there from 1973 to 1999 (13 editions, alternating with Le Mans), while the legendary Bol d'Or resided there from 1978 to 1999, i.e. 22 consecutive editions. The 200 Miles du Paul Ricard Moto Journal (1974-1982) complete this exceptional record.

Purchased in 2000 by the Excelis company, the circuit was completely modernized to become a high-tech test center while continuing to host competitions and motorcycle track days throughout the year.

The configurations of the Paul Ricard track

The Paul Ricard circuit is renowned for its exceptional modularity, with more than 167 possible configurations. For motorcycle track days, two main layouts are used:

• GP Configuration (5.842 km): the complete track, including the famous 1,800-meter Mistral straight. This is the configuration used for major competitions (FIA GT, former GP motorcycle races). The track runs clockwise and offers a technical sequence of fast corners and heavy braking zones.
• Short circuit / North track (3.813 km): a shorter configuration, frequently used for motorcycle track days and riding courses. More technical and less focused on pure speed, it allows riders to work on trajectories and cornering placement.

The track is 12 meters wide over the entire layout, offering an appreciable safety margin. The elevation change is 33 meters and the surface is made of high-quality asphalt.

Characteristics and riding tips

The GP layout of the Paul Ricard circuit offers emblematic passages that require technique and commitment:

• Mistral straight (1,800 m): the longest straight in Europe at the time of its construction. On a motorcycle, speeds exceed 250 km/h. In 2015, Philippe Monneret reached 357 km/h there on a Kawasaki Ninja H2R. Use wide trajectories to maximize your acceleration out of the previous corner.
• Signes curve: a fast corner at over 200 km/h which is negotiated at full throttle in MotoGP. During track days, maintain a high speed but prepare for braking for the Beausset that follows.
• Le Beausset: a double right-hand corner downhill, one of the most demanding braking zones on the track. The transition from over 250 km/h to around 170 km/h requires intense and progressive braking. Aim for the precise apex at the second clipping point.
• La Verrerie: a sequence of S-curves that rewards fluidity and good body positioning on the motorcycle.

The blue and red (abrasive) run-off areas are a specific feature of the Paul Ricard circuit: they gradually slow down the machines in the event of leaving the track, offering increased safety compared to conventional gravel traps. However, remain vigilant as these abrasive areas can damage the fairings.

Access and practical information

The Paul Ricard circuit is located in Le Castellet, in the Var, in the heart of Provence. Its exact address is 2760 route des Hauts du Camp, 83330 Le Castellet.

• By car: A50 motorway exit 11 (Le Beausset / Le Castellet), then follow the DN8 towards Le Castellet. Approximately 45 minutes from Marseille, 30 minutes from Toulon.
• By train: Marseille Saint-Charles TGV station, then transfer by private hire vehicle or taxi (approximately 50 minutes).
• By plane: Marseille-Provence airport (Marignane), approximately 65 km from the circuit.

The Mediterranean climate of Le Castellet offers ideal conditions for motorcycle track days: more than 300 days of sunshine per year and mild temperatures even in winter. However, be aware of the Mistral, this powerful north wind which can blow in gusts on the straight (which bears its name) and affect the stability of the motorcycle in fast sections.

Why ride at the Paul Ricard circuit?

The Paul Ricard circuit in Le Castellet brings together all the assets for a memorable motorcycle track day experience. Its modular layout adapts to all levels, from the 3.8 km North track for introductory courses to the complete 5.8 km GP track for experienced riders. The track width of 12 meters and the abrasive run-off areas guarantee optimal safety. The Provençal climate allows you to plan track days all year round, and the heritage of more than 50 years of motorsport — from the Bol d'Or to the Grands Prix — gives each track day a unique atmosphere. Book your next motorcycle track day and ride at Paul Ricard!