Here we are back in Assetto Corsa with another mod. This time we have a track mod at the Circuit De Charade & Mr Watton is at the wheel.
It’s fantastic to be back in the virtual cockpit of Assetto Corsa! This time around, we’re diving into a brand-new track modification, the legendary Circuit De Charade. And who better to guide us around this historic tarmac than Mr. Watton?
Over at simrace247.com, you can always find great sim racing content, and this time is no exception. Mr. Watton takes on the challenging Circuit De Charade in a truly iconic machine: the 1967 Formula 1 Lotus 49. His onboard drive provides a wonderful tour for the community, packed with insights into the circuit’s layout and the captivating stories of those who have raced here before.
Original Circuit (1958–1988):
- Length: 8.055 km (5.005 miles)
- Turns: 48
- This longer layout was described as a twistier and faster version of the famous Nürburgring. It featured relentless sharp curves and significant elevation changes with very few discernible straights.
- F1 French Grand Prix Host: 4 times (1965, 1969, 1970, 1972)
- Lap Record: 2:53.900 (set by Chris Amon in a Matra MS120D during the 1972 French Grand Prix), with an average speed of 167 km/h (104 mph).
Modern Circuit (1989–present):
- Length: 3.975 km (2.470 miles)
- Turns: 18
- This shorter and safer layout uses part of the original track along with a new link road.
- Average Steepness: 9%
- Gear Changes: Approximately 10 per lap in a modern racing car (this stat was mentioned in the context of the modern circuit).
- Race Lap Record (Modern Circuit): 1:43.827 (set by Sébastien Bourdais in a Martini MK79 Formula 3 car in 1999).
This circuit holds a special place in motorsport history, and here are some interesting tidbits to illustrate why:
The Circuit De Charade first gained international prominence through motorcycle racing. In 1959, it proudly hosted the French Motorcycle Grand Prix for the very first time. The legendary John Surtees secured victory in the 500cc class for MV Augusta.
The stunning Auvergne mountains provided the backdrop for this race a total of ten times until 1974. Throughout these years, the circuit witnessed wins from some of the sport’s most celebrated figures, including Phil Read, Mike Hailwood, and Giacomo Agostini.