Hockenheim will forever be known as the circuit at which Jim Clark was killed in 1968. However, the track in recent years has come into its own as having one of the most unique layouts in modern Formula 1. Basically the circuit comprises a twisty stadium section which then opens into a flat-out blast disappearing off into the forest.

The first race at Hockenheim took place in 1977 after Niki lauda's near fatal crash at the Nurburgring the year before. Fittingly, it was Lauda that took the victory. Throughout the Eighties it was McLaren who were the dominant force, Alain Prost taking victory in 1984 and Ayrton Senna winning in 1988 and 1989. Michael Schumacher's emergence in the Nineties gave the Hockenheim crowd a hero of their own to cheer, although 'Schumi' has not had the best of luck at his home grand prix. He has won only once in 1995, when arch-rival Damon Hill crashed while leading in the early stages.

Another crowd favourite Gerhard Berger had a particular affinity with the track, winning for Ferrari in '94 and taking his final win for Benetton in 1997. For this year Hockenheim will be extensively modified as it is longer deemed safe by modern standards.