Jun.6 (GMM) Croatia has moved a significant step closer to Formula 1 after a proposed new circuit cleared a major environmental hurdle.
The planned ‘Croatia Ring’ near the town of Slunj has been told by Croatia’s Ministry of Environmental Protection and Green Transformation that a full environmental impact assessment will not be required, although existing regulations must still be respected.
The decision is an important milestone for a project that openly targets Formula 1 in the long term.
According to Germany’s Auto Motor und Sport, the Croatia Ring is planned as a major motorsport and leisure complex covering around 50 hectares.
One of the most recognisable names attached to the project is 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve, who is serving as an advisor.
His involvement has helped generate international attention for the proposal.
The project already enjoys official backing after being classified as a strategic national investment by Croatian authorities.
Supporters believe the circuit could become an economic driver for the region, with Zagreb and its international airport located roughly 75 minutes away.
The current target is to complete the Croatia Ring by the end of 2027.
