With a significantly weighty and historic name like that (due to its proximity to the Ferrari factory), this 4.96km circuit has always tried to maintain a presence on the F1 calendar. Effectively a second Italian Grand Prix in all but name, it was cheekily called the ‘San Marino Grand Prix’ instead, being the name of a nearby small municipality.

Opened in 1954 and first hosting motorcycle racing, F1 visited on and off from 1963. 1994 however will be remembered for many years to come, due to the tragic loss of F1 ace Ayrton Senna and newcomer Roland Ratzenberger in the same weekend. The world was stunned, and safety for cars and circuits gained an increased focus, ultimately saving numerous lives since.

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By Phil Clark