Your First Track Day at A1 Motor Park
Complete checklist from a driver who's been there
“I remember my first track day. I over-prepared the car, under-prepared myself, and spent half the day nervous instead of enjoying it. This guide is everything I wish someone had told me. A1 Motor Park is the perfect place for your first lap — here's how to make it count.”
Before You Go
- Book your track day slot in advance
- Check your car insurance covers track use (most don't)
- Get track day specific insurance if needed
- Download and read the track day regulations
- Plan your route to Samokov — allow extra time
- Book accommodation if travelling far
Car Preparation
- Check brake fluid — use DOT 4 or higher, fresh fluid is essential
- Check tyre condition and pressure (add 2-3 PSI for track use)
- Check all fluid levels (oil, coolant, washer)
- Remove all loose items from car interior — they become projectiles
- Check brake pad thickness — minimum 5mm recommended
- Tape over headlights (prevents glass on track)
- Remove floor mats
- Check wheel nut torque
What to Bring
- Helmet — minimum ECE 22.06 rated
- Gloves — driving gloves recommended
- Comfortable driving shoes (thin sole, no platforms)
- Race suit or fire-resistant clothing (recommended, sometimes required)
- Water and snacks — track days are physically demanding
- Sunscreen — you'll be outside all day
- Ear plugs — pit lane is loud
- Camera/GoPro mount (check rules first)
- Tools for basic adjustments
- Tyre pressure gauge
On the Day
- Arrive early — registration and scrutineering takes time
- Attend the mandatory drivers briefing — never skip this
- Walk the pit lane before driving
- First session: slow down, learn the track layout
- Use brake markers to find your braking points
- Don't follow other cars too closely — keep a safe gap
- Cool down laps — always do a slow lap before pitting
- Check your brakes after every session (heat soak)
Top 5 Tips from the Track
- 1Smooth is fast — forget speed, focus on smoothness
- 2Look ahead, not at the bonnet — your eyes lead the car
- 3Brake in a straight line — always finish braking before turning
- 4Let faster cars go — your lap time improves when relaxed
- 5Enjoy it — your first lap at A1 is something you'll never forget
Track Day FAQ
Everything you need to know before your first visit
For a track day at A1 Motor Park you need: a road-legal car in good mechanical condition, a helmet (minimum ECE 22.06 rated), valid driving licence, and track day insurance. Full details are available in the CIRCUIT.INSIDER first track day guide.
No. A standard driving licence is sufficient for track day sessions at A1 Motor Park. A race licence is only required for competitive racing events.
A minimum ECE 22.06 rated helmet is recommended for track days at A1 Motor Park.
Standard road car insurance typically does not cover track days. Dedicated track day insurance is strongly recommended before attending A1 Motor Park.
A common starting point is to add 2-3 PSI above your normal road pressure. Recommended starting pressures are approximately 32-35 PSI front and 30-33 PSI rear cold, adjusting based on tyre temperature.