Detour #69: Reims, France
Photo: Jesse de Backer
Reims hasn’t hosted a Grand Prix since 1966, but the faded glory of its photogenic pit lane is still a draw for drivers.
Around 80 miles north-east of Paris, this legendary circuit first hosted racing in 1926 on a quasi-triangular track that measured 4.9 miles. Over the years several tweaks were made to the layout until the track was shuttered in 1972.
It fell into decline and, although the roads on which the circuit were composed were maintained the circuit buildings weren’t. Now the faded charm is gently being restored and the pit lane looks almost as good as it did in 1966.
Situated on the D27 it marks the start/finish line of the circuit, most of which you can still drive today. Head south-east down the main straight to the roundabout and you’ll find yourself at turn one – Calvaire. Turn right onto the D26 and you’ll soon approach the near-ninety-degree Annie Bousquet right-hander followed by a fast left kink at Bretelle Nord. Turn three, Virage Muizon, is now another roundabout where you turn right again. Then it’s almost dead straight down the N31 through La Garenne to the roundabout which was once known as Virage Thillois, before you’re back on the main straight again for a flying finish.
In the 1966 Grand Prix de l’ACF Sir Jack Brabham set a new record of 1:48:31.3 in his Brabham Honda BT19 – an average speed of almost 138mph. Tempting as it may be to have a go at beating him, the gendarmes are only too aware of the history and are often ready with their radar guns.
Instead of a speeding ticket to remember your visit, park in the pit lane and grab as many photographic mementos as you can.
For more street circuits you can drive today click here.
Words Nik Berg Twitter | Instagram
Photography Jess de Backer / Unsplash