The 10 Best Corners On The 2015 Formula 1 Calendar

The 2015 Formula 1 calendar features some incrediblly challenging and iconic corners. Here is our selection of the 10 best:

This is undoubtedly the trickiest section of the Sepang International Circuit. The medium-speed, double right-hander gradually tightens and requires simultaneous braking and steering. A good exit is vital for the long straight that follows.

9. Parabolica, Monza, Italy

Despite a large part of the gravel trap being replaced by tarmac on the exit, Parabolica remains one of F1’s most iconic corners. The medium-speed hairpin can be an overtaking spot, and requires drivers to run as wide as possible to carry speed into the long start/finish straight.

Named after arguably F1’s greatest ever driver, the Senna S is a tricky, downhill left-right complex that kicks off a lap of the Interlagos circuit. It is easy to get wrong, particularly in wet conditions, and follows a 20-second flat-out burst from Turn 12. Many memorable moments and overtakes have taken place here.

The final chicane at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve requires a confident and aggressive approach. Following the flat-out run along the back straight, drivers need to brake heavily and chuck their cars across the right-left complex, using just enough kerb but not too much to unsettle the car. There is very little room for error – the barrier at the exit isn’t nicknamed the “Wall of Champions” for nothing.

The Circuit de Monaco is a hugely demanding track, with the ‘Swimming Pool’ section being the toughest and most spectacular. The terrifyingly quick and narrow complex features a high-speed left-right chicane, before drivers quickly hit the brakes for the slower right-left section. Full focus is required and even the smallest error can result in a big accident.

It was originally a long, sweeping corner before being transformed into a two-part right-hander in the 1980s. A lot of time can be gained or lost, and the gravel trap is ready on the outside to punish any mistakes.

The high-speed left-hander requires total commitment and, despite the addition of a tarmac run-off area, remains one of the most challenging corners in F1. It usually requires a lift of the throttle, before drivers throw their cars into the turn and head downhill as it opens up.

The second and final appearance for Suzuka on our list, 130R is an epic corner that requires incredible confidence and bravery. Drivers can gain a huge amount of time with a fast run through the turn, which is approached at full speed. The quick left-hander has been the scene of some huge accidents, such as when Toyota’s Allan McNish went through the barrier after losing control in 2002.

2. Maggots/Becketts/Chapel, Silverstone, Britain

Silverstone is the home of British motorsport and hosted the first ever F1 world championship round back in 1950. The fast, sweeping Maggots/Becketts/Chapel complex is so good that some tracks – such as the Circuit of the Americas – have tried to replicate it. It is wonderful to watch drivers threading their way through the tricky section, with complete commitment and plenty of downforce required to tackle the high-speed direction changes.

This one was fairly obvious, wasn’t it? And to be clear, I am talking about the entire Eau Rouge/Raidillon complex, which is – of course – made up of the iconic, sweeping uphill left-right-left sequence. It may not be as challenging as it once was, but that doesn’t take away the amazing thrill of the corner and the spectacle it creates.

Do you agree with our selection? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!