D'Anges Circuit (FR)

### Basic Info:

The D'Anges Circuit is located in the charming town of Anges, France. Originally planned as an oval circuit, construction only commenced in 2007 after several years of legal disputes and debates within the local community regarding the benefits of having a circuit in the city.

## History:

##### **Inception and Vision: Early 2000s**

When a gentle breeze wafts through, it not only hints at a 'typhoon' but also unveils the spirit of a 'rafale.'

As the Euro Speedway took shape in Eastern Germany, the west coast of the Atlantic Ocean witnessed the birth of "Voie de Vitesse Française," a track called "Circuit des Anges" that would later become known as D'Anges. It was strategically positioned at the town of Anges to welcome motorsport teams and events. Unlike the grandeur of Grand Prix circuits, D'Anges was designed with a different purpose in mind—providing an affordable yet engaging space for track days and events, making it the go-to destination for training and thrilling experiences.

##### **The Unfolding of Time: 2000-2012**

D'Anges began its journey with the construction of a single oval in the early 2000s. This oval would be entirely interconnected by tunnels, creating a passage that connected the interior to the exterior of the track. However, the local community was not entirely satisfied with this project, claiming that a racing track would not bring benefits to the community. This initiated a lengthy legal battle that extended for six years until one of the parties finally obtained the necessary permission to commence construction. After the permission was granted at the end of 2006, it was agreed that the construction would begin in the first quarter of 2007 and would be completed by 2009.

However, in the face of the 2008 crisis, the construction of the infield layout had to be paused. One of the directors decided to open the single oval track for business without the completion of the infield, not only to bring in more funds to complete the infield but also to showcase that the track would benefit the local community.

With the completion of the sole oval and the first Indy event in 2009, the local community, which had previously disagreed with the construction of the racetrack in the D'Anges area, realized that the project brought significant benefits. It attracted many tourists to the events held at the location, boosting the local economy and further strengthening the small town of Anges.

Over the next three years, the D'Anges Circuit hosted various local and regional automotive events, establishing itself as one of the best ovals in the region. Additionally, many car manufacturers used the circuit to test their vehicles, contributing to its reputation in the automotive world. The track finally finished the infield layout in 2012 with the new funds raised to complete the final canvas of the initial design, while its German cousin, Euro Speedway, had already been operating for almost a decade.

##### **A Unique Design Unveiled: Circuit Highlights**

Despite the delay, D'Anges proved that its layout was not merely the result of mathematical calculations but a spark of inspiration. It distinguished itself with corners that seemingly dared drivers at entry but, in reality, provided a safe passage at the exit, allowing cars to gracefully navigate the track.

One of the circuit's most distinctive features was the first corner that transitioned from the oval to the infield. Unlike other tracks that relied on sharp turns, D'Anges offered an incredibly fast and wide first corner. Drivers discovered that they could always brake later and bring more speed into the corner every lap, thanks to the wide and long exit curb.

The circuit's other layouts found a delicate balance between high-speed corners and slower, technical sections. With a compact pit lane, the infield could operate independently, bypassing the oval section—a perfect setup for slower cars seeking their own speed-drenched adventure.

##### **A Glimpse of the Future: The Next Chapter**

As nearly two decades passed since its initial construction, the facility has continued its slow but steady evolution. The trees have grown taller, transforming D'Anges into a serene and picturesque garden. The track committee now dreams of extending the infield and adapting it to meet the standards of the World Endurance Championship (WEC) in the next decade.

D'Anges, a circuit born from inspiration and carved by time, stands as a testament to the marriage of speed and artistry, beckoning motorsport enthusiasts to embrace its challenging curves and enchanting landscapes.