Karlskoga Motorstadion, sidecar championship circuits
Karlskoga Motorstadion is a racing circuit about 2,530 meters long, located roughly 6 kilometers north of the town of Karlskoga in Sweden. The layout allows spectators to see different sections of the track from most viewing areas, and modern safety features combined with paved surfaces and varied corners make it suitable for touring cars, Porsche series, and motorcycle racing.
The track was built in 1949, with the first race, Kanonloppet, held on June 4, 1950. The 1960s brought non-championship Formula One races to the circuit, and in 1967 it hosted the Swedish Grand Prix under Formula 2 rules with drivers like Jackie Stewart, Jim Clark, and Jack Brabham competing there. Motorcycle Grand Prix events followed in the late 1970s with riders such as Barry Sheene.
The venue is also known as Gelleråsen Arena, a name that comes from the nearby hillside. Visitors today experience how racing fans gather throughout the year to share their passion for motorsport and witness the speed and skill on display at this long-standing racing hub.
The circuit hosts racing events throughout the year, with most races occurring during summer months. The location is set outside the town itself, so visitors should plan their route in advance and be aware that weather conditions can change quickly during race days, affecting visibility and track conditions.
A tragic 1970 accident during a touring car race claimed five spectator lives, prompting major safety improvements including better barriers and run-off zones. These upgrades transformed how the venue operates today and represent an important chapter in how the track learned to protect those who gather there.
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