How long does it take to get in and out of an F1 circuit?

Going to an F1 race is amazing, but getting into and out of the track can be unsmooth. Expect to wait in long lines, to be funneled through limited-access points, and to be checked for safety and security in ways you wouldn't have imagined. Almost everything you go through adds at least an hour to your travel time on race day, and there's not much you can do to shortcut around these access issues. Planning can help you avoid the appearance of working your way through an obstacle course.

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Getting in: what to expect

For most circuits, entry takes between 30 and 90 minutes on race days. That varies depending on when you arrive, the type of ticket you hold, and how the circuit is set up.

• General Admission fans often queue earlier and wait longer to secure a good viewing spot. It’s common to see GA fans entering as soon as gates open, which can be 2–3 hours before the session starts.
• Grandstand and hospitality ticket holders usually experience shorter entry times—typically around 30 to 60 minutes, especially if they arrive early.
• Security queues can become bottlenecks. Some fans report over 3-hour waits at certain events like the Brazilian Grand Prix in 2024, where delays caused many to miss qualifying.

Recommended arrival times

• Friday practice sessions: Arrive 1 hour early
• Qualifying (Saturday): Arrive 1.5 to 2 hours early
• Race day (Sunday): Arrive 2+ hours early, especially for GA

Each circuit opens its gates at different times, so it’s worth checking the specific schedule and map provided by the event or the F1 app.

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Exiting the circuit: patience required

Leaving the venue can be even more time-consuming than getting in—especially if you're in a rush to catch a shuttle or avoid traffic.

• At busy tracks like Silverstone, Spa, and COTA, it can take up to 2 hours to get out of the parking lots. Not to mention wait times for taxis or shuttles which can be over 4 hours on some tracks.
• Some fans choose to stay an hour or two after the race ends—either to watch the podium ceremony, explore the fan zones, or just wait for the crowds to clear.

Sample exit times

• Right after the race: Expect heavy crowding at gates, shuttles, and parking areas.
• 1 hour post-race: Crowds start to thin, but public transport may still be busy.
• 2 hours post-race: Access improves, traffic subsides, and transit queues shrink.

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Circuit layout matters

Street circuits generally have fewer points for entry and exit and depend a lot on public transport. Permanent tracks might provide more shuttle buses or parking areas— but that doesn’t always mean a speedier experience.

For example:

• Monza: Many fans take a shuttle to the Biassono-Lesmo stop, then walk 15–30 minutes to their gate.
• Las Vegas: Road closures for the race limit car traffic, making public transport the most reliable way in and out.
• Austin (COTA): Large lots are available, but post-race car traffic can lead to 90+ minute delays.

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Tips to make it easier

• Download the official F1 app or circuit-specific app. These often include maps, gate hours, and live updates.
• Avoid the peak crowd by arriving early and leaving late.
• Use public transportation where available—shuttles and metro options often move faster than cars.
• Have a meeting point in case you get separated from your group (signal reception isn’t guaranteed with large crowds).
• Wear proper shoes—expect to walk long distances.
• Pack essentials: water, sunscreen, portable phone charger, and a printed map if cell service drops.

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The bottom line

Typically, you should have 1 to 2 hours to get through the gate on race day and another hour or more to get back out—longer if you’re driving or using a shuttle, typical in these sorts of situations.

Some fans do have the good fortune to enjoy speedy entry and exit, but that’s not the standard. In fact, it’s a lot more common to have to wait to get in and then to wait again, when you think you should be almost done, to get out. It’s uncomfortable to be in a hurry and not moving.

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Find F1 tickets at Fastway1.com

‍At Fastway1.com, we help Formula 1 fans compare ticket options across every race weekend. Whether you're hunting for General Admission, Grandstand, or Hospitality passes, we pull listings from trusted sellers to help you get the most out of your race weekend—before, during, and after the action.

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FAQ about Fastway1.com

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A: Fastway1.com is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or in any commercial partnership with Formula 1 or its associated companies. It operates independently to provide a valuable service to F1 fans.

Q: How can I contact Fastway1.com for support?
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