HISTORY OF THE AUTÓDROMO TERMAS DE RÍO HONDO

The Autódromo Termas de Río Hondo in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, has established itself as a premier motorsport venue in South America, with a rich history of national and international racing events. This modern circuit offers fans and racers alike a thrilling experience in a uniquely scenic location.

Opened in 2008, the Autódromo Termas de Río Hondo was initially built to host national events like Turismo Carretera, a popular Argentinian racing series. By 2012, the circuit underwent significant upgrades, bringing it up to international standards, which paved the way for MotoGP to debut there in 2014.

The renovations were overseen by Italian designer Jarno Zaffelli, who added elements that challenged riders with technical corners and long straights. Its layout, which spans 4.8 kilometres with 14 turns, is noted for its flow and mix of high-speed and technical sections.

Since joining the MotoGP calendar, Termas de Río Hondo has become a highlight for both fans and riders, thanks to its fast and exciting track. The circuit is also known for its welcoming atmosphere, with dedicated fan zones and well-organised facilities that cater to spectators.

In addition to MotoGP, it has hosted the FIA WTCC and several local racing championships, further establishing its role as a versatile motorsport venue. Today, Termas de Río Hondo remains a favourite for both MotoGP riders and fans, celebrated for its vibrant energy, challenging track, and unique cultural flair.

MotoGP race winners at Autódromo Termas de Río Hondo

2014: Marc Márquez dominated to secure victory in the inaugural race at this circuit.
2015: Valentino Rossi won in a memorable race where he clashed with Márquez, leading to the latter's crash.
2016: Márquez again took the top spot despite tyre challenges that required a mandatory pit stop for all riders.
2017: Maverick Viñales led a Yamaha 1-2 finish, with Rossi in second place.
2018: Cal Crutchlow clinched victory after a chaotic race start and multiple penalties for Márquez.
2019: Márquez claimed another win, showing a strong performance and leaving his competitors well behind.
2022: Aleix Espargaró took his and Aprilia's first MotoGP win.
2023: Marco Bezzecchi emerged victorious, marking another exciting instalment of the Argentine GP

History of Argentine motorcycle Grand Prix

The Argentine Motorcycle Grand Prix has a rich history, first held in 1961 at the Autódromo Oscar Alfredo Gálvez in Buenos Aires. It became a fixture on the FIM World Championship calendar, drawing top riders from around the world.

After various interruptions, the event found a new home at the Autódromo Termas de Río Hondo in 2014, following extensive upgrades to meet MotoGP standards. Today, it’s celebrated as one of South America’s premier motorcycle racing events, attracting fans and racers alike to Argentina’s thrilling motorsport scene.