The “Guido Mandracci” kart track in Arma di Taggia, located in the Colli region near the A10 motorway exit in Imperia, is set to reopen after years of forced closure. Famous for being one of Michael Schumacher’s favorite tracks, it was originally built between the late 1970s and early 1980s and quickly became a key hub for youth and amateur karting in western Liguria.
For decades, the track hosted regional races, single-make trophies, and long training sessions for aspiring drivers. Management ceased in 2017 due to financial and maintenance challenges, leaving the circuit abandoned for more than eight years, with crumbling asphalt and dilapidated facilities.
A tribute to Guido Mandracci
The circuit is named Pista Mandracci in honor of Sanremo-born driver Guido Mandracci (1948–2012). Mandracci competed in the 250cc class of the Motorcycle World Championship from 1971 to 1975 with private teams, first on Yamaha and later on Harley-Davidson. His most notable result was a third-place finish at the 1972 Yugoslavian Grand Prix, alongside several other points-scoring finishes, earning him a place in Italian motorsport history. After retiring, he remained active locally as an instructor and motorsport event organizer. The city council officially named the track in his memory with his family’s approval.
Michael Schumacher’s connection
During the 1980s, while living in Monte Carlo about 50 km away, a young Michael Schumacher frequently trained at the track. Accompanied by his father Rolf or manager Willi Weber, he drove 100cc karts in intense practice sessions. Locals recall nighttime sessions under improvised floodlights, with lap times between 48 and 49 seconds, considered amateur records at the time. The track was valued for its mix of fast corners and tight chicanes, ideal for perfecting lines and braking points.
Other notable drivers also trained at the circuit, including Michael’s brother Ralf Schumacher, Clay Regazzoni, Pedro Paulo Diniz, Heinz-Harald Frentzen, Johnny Herbert, Giovanni Lavaggi, and top motorcycle riders like Wayne Gardner, Pierfrancesco Chili, Max Biaggi, and Mick Doohan.
Technical features of the track
The circuit is 800 meters long with an average width of 8 meters and runs counterclockwise. It features a main straight of 120 meters, 12 corners including three chicanes, and a maximum elevation change of 4 meters. The asphalt was completely resurfaced in 2025 using a draining mix. Safety barriers have been replaced with high-absorption polyethylene, runoff areas widened, and LED lighting installed for evening races. The pits now offer 24 covered spaces, and timing is handled via the AMB TranX system with MyLaps transponders.
Events and reopening
The official reopening is scheduled for Saturday, December 6, with a ribbon-cutting attended by the Mandracci family and local authorities. Planned events include the Trofeo Mandracci on February 14–15 for the 100cc and 125cc categories, a 6-hour team endurance race in March, and themed summer evenings such as the “Michael Schumacher Night” featuring 1980s vintage karts.
The reopening project required a private investment of around €450,000, supplemented by a €50,000 municipal contribution and support from local sponsors. The track is part of the Riviera dei Motori tourist route, alongside the Sanremo Rally and the Garlenda 500 Museum.
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