R3E – Paul Ricard Circuit Preview Video

Sector3 studios released a preview video showing us the virtual version of the French Paul Ricard circuit that will soon become part of the RaceRoom Racing Experience track list.

The video shows us footage of a lap around the famous test track driving the RaceRoom BMW Z4 GT3. The release version of the track will include 4 layouts, including the 1A (F1 Test) version, 1C-2V (BES, WEC) version, 3C (WTCC) version and the 2A-short track. Sector3 did not yet announce an official release date.

The Paul Ricard Circuit is a Motorsport race track built in 1969 at Le Castellet, near Marseille. It is regarded as one of the best testing circuits in the world. The track is famous for its 1.8km Mistral straight. The full track is around 3.610 miles (5.8 km) long. The shorter circuit is known as the GP short circuit and is 2.369 miles (3.8 km) long. The track offers 167 possible configurations from 826 to 5,861 meters. Its flexibility and mild winter weather mean that it is used for testing by several Motorsport teams, including Formula One teams.

One of the most recognizable features is its black and blue runoff areas that are known as the Blue Zone. The runoff surface consists of a mixture of asphalt and tungsten creating maximum friction when a car goes off-track. The deeper run-off areas are the Red Zone, with a more abrasive surface designed to maximize tire grip and hence minimize braking distance.