Tenerife Motor Circuit Future Uncertain After Court Rules Environmental Permit Expired

The future of the Tenerife Motor Circuit is uncertain following a recent ruling by the High Court of Justice of the Canary Islands (TSJC). As reported by El Día, the court confirmed that the project’s Environmental Impact Statement has expired. This decision casts doubt on the development in Granadilla de Abona, which only began construction eight months ago after more than 30 years of administrative delays.

This legal challenge was brought by the Tenerife Association of Friends of Nature (ATAN), which has raised several objections to the project. The group argues that the circuit is environmentally unsustainable during a climate crisis and questions the high cost to public funds. The project’s future now rests on three other pending court cases, which cover key elements including the track, spectator stands, access roads, and flood protection.

Tenerife Island Council President Rosa Dávila is taking a cautious approach, stating that any future decisions will depend on the remaining court rulings and a review by the council’s legal team. For now, construction at the Los Duques de Atogo site continues, as there is no court order currently requiring work to stop.

The local motorsport community is worried about the setback. Francisco Negrín, president of the Tenerife Federation, argues that the lack of proper facilities forces drivers to practice on public roads, which increases the risk of accidents. He maintains that a certified circuit is essential for safety.

The project, which has been publicly supported by racing stars like Carlos Sainz, Carlos Checa, and Christine Giampaoli Zonca, aims to become a world-class venue. Supporters highlight its potential to boost the economy, noting that the 60,000-capacity facility could serve as a testing ground for the automotive industry and host a variety of events, justifying the ongoing investment.