Circuit Italia Officially Opens in New South Wales

Circuit Italia has officially opened its gates in New South Wales, becoming the newest Motorsport Australia-licensed venue in the region. Positioned just north of Newcastle, this modern, 15-turn, clockwise circuit introduces a challenging layout enhanced by significant elevation changes. Developed to support both public and competitive events, the facility is now open for registrations and is set to become a valuable addition to the NSW motorsport landscape.

With accessibility from Newcastle Airport and strong support from industry professionals, Circuit Italia is strategically located to attract local and interstate drivers. The venue will be managed with a focus on safety, technical precision, and high-performance experiences. This launch marks an important step in expanding the state’s motorsport infrastructure, with further facility enhancements already planned.

Circuit Italia’s design offers a combination of technical variety and physical challenge. With 15 distinct turns and 33.9 meters of elevation change, the layout suits both advanced drivers and newcomers seeking a professional-grade experience. The clockwise direction introduces a sequence of fast sweepers, tight corners, and elevation-linked transitions—mirroring elements found in international circuits.

The venue has secured full approval from Motorsport Australia, ensuring it meets national standards for safety, operations, and competition-level performance. This licensing allows the track to host a range of events, from private sessions to sanctioned motorsport competitions, establishing its credibility within the broader motorsport community.

Circuit Italia has officially begun accepting public registrations for upcoming drive days. General Manager Damien White confirmed that extensive internal testing has been completed, making the circuit fully operational for scheduled public access. The track's first events will be managed by The Drive Team, led by experienced Supercars co-driver David Russell.

Russell praised the layout for its complexity and driveability, noting that the facility offers one of the most rewarding track experiences in Australia. These early sessions will serve both as promotional opportunities and functional assessments, supporting the venue’s early-phase operations and helping it refine logistics for larger motorsport events.

Circuit Italia is strategically located just 20 minutes from Newcastle Airport, which handles over 250 domestic flights weekly. This proximity enables easy access for interstate participants and makes the venue an attractive option for national motorsport events. Its position near a major urban area also supports seamless logistics for competitors, spectators, and team personnel.

Nearby accommodations, dining options, and local services enhance the overall event experience, making multi-day events more practical and comfortable. The circuit’s location is a key strength, aimed at promoting regular visitor traffic and supporting the economic activity of the surrounding region.

The venue's first public sessions are being managed by The Drive Team, selected for their operational expertise and strong track record. Led by David Russell, the team will oversee early driving programs and ensure a professional, safety-oriented rollout. Circuit Italia’s management emphasized the importance of launching with experienced partners to build credibility and set performance standards.

According to Russell, the circuit offers an “incredible layout” with a balance of technical and high-speed sections. His involvement reinforces Circuit Italia’s commitment to quality, safety, and driver satisfaction from day one.

While fully operational, Circuit Italia is designed with expansion in mind. Future phases will focus on enhancing permanent infrastructure to support a wider variety of motorsport disciplines and spectator needs. Planned additions include upgraded paddock areas, hospitality suites, and increased pit lane capacity.

These improvements aim to position the venue as a long-term hub for competitive motorsport and driver education. The phased development model allows the circuit to adapt as demand grows, while maintaining its core focus on safety, technical challenge, and professional-grade facilities.

With the opening of Circuit Italia, New South Wales strengthens its position as a leading state for motorsport in Australia. It now complements other major venues such as Sydney Motorsport Park and One Raceway, adding diversity and increased capacity to the region’s track offerings.

Its combination of accessible location, modern design, and professional backing allows Circuit Italia to serve as a viable destination for national racing events, driver training, and corporate track days. This balance of functionality and ambition highlights its role in the evolving NSW motorsport ecosystem.

Circuit Italia’s official launch marks a key development in New South Wales’ motorsport growth. With Motorsport Australia certification, advanced design, and strategic access via Newcastle Airport, the facility is built for both competition and community engagement. Early operations led by experienced teams set a strong precedent for quality and safety.

As registrations open and event schedules begin, Circuit Italia is expected to attract drivers, fans, and organizers seeking a modern, challenging circuit. Its location, infrastructure, and development roadmap position it as a key venue in Australia’s motorsport calendar.