Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet, Motorsport racing track in Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
The Autódromo Internacional Nelson Piquet was a racing circuit in the Jacarepaguá district of western Rio de Janeiro, built on former marshland near a large lagoon. The complex included a permanent road course of 4.2 kilometers and an asphalt oval track measuring 3 kilometers in length.
The track opened in 1977 and hosted the Formula One Brazilian Grand Prix between 1978 and 1989. After the Formula One era ended, the facility continued to stage other motorsport events before closing permanently in 2012.
The circuit was originally called Autódromo de Jacarepaguá before being renamed in 1988 after the three-time world champion. The track was known for its palm-lined atmosphere and tropical setting, which set it apart from other racing venues of the era.
The site was located between the Barra da Tijuca and Jacarepaguá neighborhoods, roughly 35 kilometers from the city center. Access was via Avenida Ayrton Senna, which runs along the coast and connects western Rio de Janeiro with the southern part of the city.
The site was completely demolished to make way for the 2016 Olympic Park, including the Olympic Stadium and several sports arenas. Today, nothing remains of the former racing circuit as the entire area was reshaped.
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