Croatia gets a Formula 1 track? The project at Slunja is getting closer to realization

Croatia appears poised to host its first Formula One circuit, with plans advancing for a new international racing track near Slunj in the Karlovac County. The project, known as Croatia Ring, has been under preparation for five years and is now being considered as a strategic national investment. If completed, the track would meet the highest standards set by the International Automobile Federation (FIA), potentially hosting Formula One races in the coming years. The proposed track will span approximately 50 hectares, stretching from Veljuni to Blagaj near Slunj. Local landowner Ivica Stanišić has already sold part of his property for the project, while retaining some land adjacent to a wooden cabin near the Korana waterfall. He expressed optimism about the area's future prosperity and the return of young people to the region. “I think this place, together with us here, will become much better, and our youth will come back from other countries,” Stanišić said. He added that many young people had already returned from Germany, citing the track as a reason for their decision. Local businesses see the potential for significant growth in tourism and related services. Viktorija Bosanac, from the sales and marketing department of a nearby hotel, stated that the project could lead to the expansion of wellness offerings and increased accommodation capacity. Mirjana Puškarić, mayor of Slunj, emphasized that the track would create jobs and enrich the local community’s cultural and economic landscape. Beyond the main attraction of the race track itself, designed to be 3.6 kilometers long, the project includes a range of facilities such as grandstands for up to 15,000 spectators, service buildings, VIP lounges, garages, restaurants, exhibition spaces, and accommodations. According to Davorin Štetner, a leader and partner in the project, the site will serve multiple purposes beyond motorsport. “It’s also a large concert venue, where car testing and presentations can take place, along with various events for a wide audience. Sport is just a small part; the larger portion will thrive year-round through tourism,” he explained. The process of obtaining a location permit is currently underway. The Karlovac County administration has prepared an environmental protection plan due to the proximity of the Korana River. Martina Furdek Hajdin, the county administrator, highlighted that 34 measures have been outlined for the investor to follow, including monitoring the environment during both construction and operation of the racetrack. She stressed the importance of balancing economic development with the preservation of nature. “We truly believe that economic growth can be achieved while protecting the environment and nature,” she concluded. Construction is expected to begin next year and is projected to last around two years. The project involves extensive collaboration with Formula One figures, including Jacques Villeneuve, the 1997 F1 champion, who has contributed significantly to the design. Other drivers, such as Lando Norris, have also been involved in reviewing and providing input on the track’s features. Štetner noted that these contributions have influenced the final design, adding that there is hope to bring more Formula One personalities to Croatia in the future. The development of the Croatia Ring represents a major step forward for Croatian motorsport and tourism, with the potential to position Slunj as a key destination on the European motorsport calendar. As preparations continue, the focus remains on ensuring compliance with environmental regulations while creating a world-class facility that could attract global attention.