In addition to the all-new 3.0-kilometre layout built to FIA Grade 2 standards, which will host WTCC Race of Morocco next month, the redevelopment work has created a permanent 1.8-kilometre track that can be used throughout the year.

Designed by Hermann Tilke, the new-look Circuit Moulay El Hassan facility in Marrakech, named after Morocco’s Crown Prince, will accelerate the development of motorsport in the country by providing Morocco’s first permanent track, while also creating a centre to promote road safety.

“This is the only permanent track in Morocco today and it’s in the heart of the city within five minutes of the best Marrakech has to offer,” said Marrakech Grand Prix promoter Aly Horma. “With a population of close to 40 million, double-digit growth for the car market, and major manufacturers producing and exporting from Morocco, the country presents a compelling opportunity for a permanent circuit.

“Six years of WTCC, Africa’s biggest motorsport event today, has put us in a position to move to the next phase with know-how developed in-house from local experience. This next phase was to build the permanent circuit so we can develop motorsports and car dealer activities nationally all year long. We will also work hard to grow local drivers to ensure there are drivers capable of following Mehdi Bennani into the WTCC and one day emulating his standout achievements. The permanent circuit also fulfils the goal of developing real road safety programmes, which are a top priority nationally.” 

Horma also hopes Morocco’s warm climate will encourage more teams and championships to utilise the new Circuit Moulay El Hassan.

Meanwhile, several international journalists were invited to learn more about the exciting developments during a press briefing ahead of WTCC Race of France at Circuit Paul Ricard last week where Horma, Bennani and WTCC promoter François Ribeiro were present.

Ribeiro said: “The new track in Marrakech will not only be great for the WTCC, it will also take motorsport in Morocco to the next level, encourage more investment in the sport in the country, provide a year-long income stream and discover the next generation of Moroccan drivers.”

The FIA World Touring Car Championship visits Marrakech from 6-8 May.