A.I.C.P.

The governing body, A.I.C.P. - where racetrack managers from across the world meet

The letters A.I.C.P. stand for Circuits International/Association Internationale des Circuits Permanents, or in German: Internationaler Dachverband Permanenter Rennstrecken [International Association of Permanent Race Circuits]. The word “permanent” is in relation to the racetracks being developed only for racing, as opposed to racetracks that are assembled from existing roadways for a specific race. Despite being exceptions to this rule, two other circuits are also members: Albert Park in Melbourne, Australia and Circuit de Monaco in Monte Carlo. In part, Le Mans in France and Spa-Francorchamps in Belgium are also not of a permanent nature because as it is well known, roadways are used to extend these circuits for racing. The association currently comprises 37 members from across the world, many of which are very well known due to annual events such as Formula 1, GT and DTM racing, which are conducted at the respective locations. Most of the circuits affiliated to the association are situated in Europe; however, the A.I.C.P. also includes member-circuits from distant, sometimes exotic countries; these include the Indianapolis Motor Speedway in USA, Fuji International Speedway and Suzuka Circuit in Japan as well as Sepang F1 Circuit in Malaysia. Brand new Formula 1 racetracks such as the Bahrain International Circuit are also affiliated to the association, together with racetracks of historic significance such as the Nürburgring, Monza, Spa-Francorchamps, and Zandvoort.

The primary objective of the A.I.C.P. is the development and utilisation of permanent racetracks, in particular the improvement of these racetracks and their alignment with the needs of auto and motorsport events. Focus is placed on an open exchange of practical experience and technical know-how between the members.

Naturally, all of this is conducted in close cooperation and coordination with the recognised sporting bodies, namely the international governing bodies, FIA (Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile) and FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme). The A.I.C.P. has Associate Member Status in both FIA and FIM and also has a permanent seat in the various FIA and FIM work committees, e.g. the FIA Circuits Commission, which concentrates on technical matters concerning the track surfaces, layout of racetracks and safety measures. Hans Ernst of Circuit Park Zandvoort has been President for 10 years. One of his deputies is Dr. Walter Kafitz.

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