Saudi Arabia presents its new circuit in Qiddiya, to host F1 in 2027

In a few days, Jeddah will host the F1 for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Present on the discipline’s calendar since 2021 – and extended until 2027 – the Corniche circuit could soon coexist with another circuit in Saudi Arabia: Qiddiya. The project, announced in 2020, is starting to gain momentum and a new milestone was reached this Tuesday.

New details have been revealed by Saudi authorities regarding the future Qiddiya circuit, a city that has been rising from the ground since 2019 in the middle of the desert to become one of the country's main entertainment and gaming centers.

Rising 20 stores above ground level, discover a unique elevated corner unlike anywhere else in the world 🏎️🏁☁️ #QiddiyaCity #PlayLife pic.twitter.com/dX4PqLqsGD

— Qiddiya (@qiddiya_en) March 5, 2024

Designed by former F1 driver Alexander Wurz and architect Hermann Tilke, the future Qiddiya circuit – named Qiddiya Speed ​​Park – will be made up of 21 turns, including a first “signature” turn, nicknamed “The Blade”, which will will rise to 70 meters in height, the equivalent of 20 floors. In total, the drivers will have to endure nearly 108 meters of altitude difference per lap. This track will aim to combine the elements of permanent circuits and urban circuits.

The circuit will also run alongside the "Falcon", which will become one of the fastest and tallest roller coasters in the world upon its release. The total length of the track has not been communicated, but it could exceed the current longest circuit on the calendar, namely Spa-Francorchamps and its 7,004 kilometer layout.

(Photos: Qiddiya Media)

Qiddiya with Jeddah on the F1 calendar?

Several viewpoints, attractions, entertainment and activities will be planned around the new circuit. “The Qiddiya Speed ​​Park will be a true embodiment of Qiddiya's 'Power to Play' philosophy and will position Qiddiya City as the home of Saudi motorsport and one of the leading motorsport venues in the world., said Abdullah Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company. Visitors and spectators will be treated to one of the most unique racing experiences in the world, with a pioneering track that will be ready to host some of the world's biggest motorsport events. »

When the Qiddiya complex is completed around 2027, Saudi Arabia wants to keep Jeddah on the calendar in addition to a second race in Qiddiya. Prince al-Faisal had said in 2023 that F1 was the most important sporting event in Saudi Arabia and that considerable investment had been made in the Jeddah circuit, but that there had been no discussions with the commercial rights holders, Liberty Media, on the organization of two races.

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