Do you remember when the Pradera Verde Racing Circuit was first announced in 2019? It was said to be a new motorsport facility in Lubao, Pampanga, designed under the supervision of Hermann Tilke and planned to meet the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) Grade 2 certification.

Construction for the track began in early 2019 to high fanfare from eager enthusiasts nationwide. However, the expected launch in 2020 was cancelled, and the following years rang hollow without any official statement about the project’s fate.

However, out of nowhere, a groundbreaking ceremony was held on June 22 for a new racetrack bearing a familiar name. After sitting dormant for seven years, the Pradera Verde Racing Circuit is finally going to happen.

Still under the Tilke Engineers and Architects portfolio, the 4.8km counterclockwise racetrack abandons the U-shape design for a smoother, more compact flow. The facility would also hold up to 44 garages in the pits and have multiple configurations, including a drag strip.

The Pradera Verde Racing Circuit is projected to be completed within 18 months, around late 2026 or early 2027.

While the grade of its circuit license has not yet been confirmed, it might anticipate a downgrade to Grade 3. While the chance of a Formula 1 race might be slim, it might create opportunities for World Superbike, TCR, GT World Challenge, and Formula 4 to compete in the country.

Nevertheless, it’s still a win for the local motorsport scene with the advent of a new playground, especially for the Toyota Gazoo Racing Philippine Cup, the MSCC Mazda Spec Series, and the Makabayan Endurance Race Challenge Series.