After eight years, the Red Bull Air Race World Championship flies back to a favorite location on April 15-16, as the season’s second stop takes off at San Diego, California, USA. Two fresh faces topped the podium at February’s 2017 kickoff, blowing the battle for the title wide open from the start, and the world’s best pilots are feeling the need for speed.
San Diego, CA (USA) – Sunny San Diego, California is laying out the welcome mat for the second stop of the Red Bull Air Race on April 15-16, the first time the World Championship has soared over the bay since a three-year stretch that ended in 2009. Eight years has seen tremendous technological advancements in racing through the Air Gates at 230mph (370kph) with forces up to 12G, and the raceplanes are more sleek and stunning than ever.
But in the end it’s all in the hands of the pilots, and with the top of the leaderboard completely up for grabs, fourteen of the world’s best will be flying full throttle. Positioned on the Pacific Coast just a few miles from Mexico, San Diego boasts pristine beaches, summery boardwalks and one of the most ideal climates in all of North America. It’s also the aviation hub that was home to the Top Gun naval school, and the knowledgeable fans who line the shore will be treated to a thrilling showdown as world champions and new mavericks go head-to-head.
“This is one to look forward to. It’s a fantastic venue, right in front of the city,” says Steve Jones, a former Red Bull Air Race pilot who is now its Race Director. “The track is very similar to Abu Dhabi in terms of maneuvering turns. It’s going to be a great race.”
