velodrome

A velodrome is a specially designed arena for track cycling, featuring an oval circuit with two straights and two banked turns. The track surface is usually made of wood, concrete, or synthetic material and measures between 150 and 250 metres in length, the most common standard being 250 m for international competition. The steep banking, which can exceed 45 degrees on elite tracks, allows cyclists to maintain high speeds through corners by counteracting centrifugal force.

Velodromes serve multiple purposes: they host professional events such as the UCI Track Cycling World Championships and Olympic track cycling competitions, as well as national and regional meets, training sessions, and recreational riding. Facilities often include a central infield area that can accommodate other sports or spectator seating, and many modern venues incorporate lighting, climate control, and timing systems to meet international standards.

The sport has a long history, with early wooden tracks appearing in the late 19th century in Europe and North America. Over time, design standards have evolved to improve safety, spectator experience, and performance. Governing bodies such as the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) regulate track dimensions, surface quality, and equipment specifications to ensure fairness and consistency across competitions. Today, velodromes are integral components of the cycling infrastructure, fostering both elite athletic development and community engagement with the sport.