One of the most important, and often underestimated, parts of race management is what happens after the event: managing the removal or replacement of track markings and motorsport sponsor branding.
Every championship brings its own commercial partners. That means the logos on the pit lane, run-off areas, start/finish straight and circuit walls are rarely permanent. For venues hosting multiple series across a season, from F1, Formula E, WEC and MotoGP, to national series’ and private track days, post-race surface management needs to be part of the operational plan from the outset.
Track branding isn’t just visual, it’s contractual. Sponsors pay for visibility, and championships require strict compliance with layout and branding guidelines.
But once the event concludes, those same markings can quickly become:
For circuits that operate year-round, the turnaround between race weekends can be tight. That’s why choosing the right removal or replacement strategy is critical.
When it comes to deciding how to deal with track markings after a race, venue operators typically have two routes:
If the circuit configuration is unchanged and the surface build-up is within acceptable limits, covering the existing artwork with a new coating is often the fastest and most cost-effective solution.
This approach is typically preferred when:
Covering allows venues to refresh branding quickly while maintaining the integrity of the surface. It avoids mechanical intervention and reduces programme time – particularly useful for multi-use venues hosting back-to-back events.
However, film thickness and adhesion compatibility must always be assessed to ensure long-term durability and friction performance are not compromised.
When reconfiguration is required, or when coating build-up becomes excessive, UHP water blasting is the preferred method.
Using high-pressure water (without chemicals) removes race event markings cleanly while preserving the underlying asphalt or concrete surface. It can simultaneously clean the surface for the next race and improve friction on the track surface if required.
UHP removal is recommended when:
Although slightly more time-intensive than overlaying, UHP water blasting provides a full reset and ensures compliance with championship and safety standards.
Before deciding on the method, venue operators should assess:
Post-race track management should be integrated into the broader asset strategy of the circuit, rather than treated as a last-minute clean-up task.
For racing venues operating in a packed global calendar, post-race surface management is no longer optional, it’s a critical part of delivering a professional, world-class circuit.
By planning your post-race circuit requirements ahead of time, you can be sure of a controlled transition back to permanent branding or preparation for the next series.
Whether that means carefully overlaying new designs or carrying out full UHP removal, our team at Roadgrip Motorsport can help you to minimise downtime, maintain surface safety, support commercial obligations and preserve broadcast quality.