Switzerland: Motorsport on circuits authorized again

In 1955, a terrible accident occurred during the 24 Hours of Le Mans race, killing 84 people and injuring 120. This horrific tragedy cast a shadow over the world of motorsport and led some countries to temporarily ban all automotive disciplines. This was the case in Switzerland, where the ban had been in effect since that day. However, the Swiss Federal Council should soon lift this prohibition.

Indeed, even though circuit competitions were banned, some races were able to take place, such as the Zurich and Bern E-Prix. The National Council and the Council of States, the two Swiss parliamentary chambers, have approved the removal of the article in recent days.

The measure is not yet fully implemented, however, as it is at the heart of a heated debate on road safety within the parliaments. But another obstacle lies in Switzerland’s timidity to host any type of competition. « The question that arises, as we talk about climate protection, environment, noise, and sustainability, is whether it is the right time to allow circuit competitions with vehicles equipped with thermal engines, » stated parliamentary Simonetta Sommaruga.

The parliamentarian continues: « Is this the signal you want to give? The opinion of the Federal Council is clear: no, certainly not. We made it possible to organize electric car races because they represent a form of new technologies and allow the public to realize the development of these technologies. »

So we’ll have to wait a little longer before seeing a Swiss Grand Prix on the Formula 1 calendar again, but nothing is impossible considering the few available circuits in the mountainous territory.