Saudi Arabia unveils new F1 circuit with 20-storey-high first corner

Since the country joined the F1 calendar for 2021, it has used the high-speed Jeddah street circuit on the coast of the Corniche.

However, there have long been plans to move to a purpose-built venue in Qiddiya, the new city project devised under the Saudi Vision 2030 scheme.

Saudi has now shown off digital images of the new 200mph anti-clockwise track, designed by ex-F1 driver Alex Wurz and well-known circuit designer Hermann Tilke.

The FIA grade one-level circuit – which qualifies it to host F1 – is most notable for its elevation changes. There is a gain of 108 metres over the 21-corner lap.

The centrepiece of that is the so-called ‘Blade’ – an LED-lit opening turn that rises for 70 metres, equivalent to more than 20 stories.

The intention is for the Qiddiya Speed Park Track to combine the virtues of permanent circuits and street venues, so it includes multiple configurations and both high-speed and slow sections over the lap.

Abdullah Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company said: “The Speed Park Track will be a true embodiment of Qiddiya’s power of play philosophy and position Qiddiya City as the home of Saudi motorsport and one of the world’s leading motorsport venues.

“Visitors and spectators will be treated to one of the most unique race experiences in the world with a pioneering track that will be ready to host some of the world’s biggest motorsport events.”

According to the press material, traditional grandstands for fans will be replaced by “multiple vantage points and viewing terraces”. The facility will also include a music venue and Six Flags rollercoaster that runs parallel to the track.

The development is 30 miles from Saudi capital city Riyadh, which hosts Formula E. It is part of a major new entertainment and commercial complex that is being built against the backdrop of a mountain range.

Mike Reininger, CEO of the Qiddiya Investment Company that is behind the circuit, previously told Motorsport.com: “We’re building so that we’re able to host MotoGP events, WEC, regional and national championship events, and all the way up through F1.

“We’re building the facilities so that we can ultimately host the biggest and the best motorsports events, really in all categories.”

It is thought that Jeddah will continue to host the Saudi Arabian GP, which takes place this weekend, until 2027.

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