What is the standard length of an Olympic velodrome lap?

The standard length of an Olympic velodrome lap is 250 metres.

Olympic track-cycling velodromes are built around a 250-metre circuit, measured at a specified line on the track. The short lap allows events such as sprinting, team pursuit and keirin to fit within a compact arena while still providing room for steeply banked turns.

Velodromes are not all the same size. Historic and non-Olympic tracks can measure 200, 250, 333⅓ or 400 metres, among other lengths. A track’s length affects race calculations and how frequently riders cross the finish line.

The steep banking is designed to help riders maintain speed through corners. The racing surface commonly includes lines marking the measurement line, sprinters’ lane and pursuit-related positions. Olympic track events use highly regulated equipment and venue specifications.