Saudi’s F1 Racing Scene Turns a Corner With Development of New Track

Words being used to describe the Jeddah’s just-announced motorsports venue, the Speed Park Track, include “futuristic,” “fantasy,” and “sci-fi.” This multi-billion dollar motorsport track, designed for F1 races as well as other motorsports competitions, is expected to position Qiddiya City as not just the home of Saudi motorsports, but also as one of the world’s leading motorsport venues. 

Branded as a track made by drivers, for drivers, the course includes a dedicated fast and open section (which speeds past theme parks and water parks) as well as a street section that takes drivers past the city’s contemporary architecture. Instead of grandstands, viewers will be able to view races on this new track from elevated terraces. The design allows seating to be closer to the track than in traditional layouts, developing an immersive experience to racing fans. The works are currently valued at SAR 7 billion, but could be worth as much as SAR 15 billion.

The unveiled plans are exciting news for Saudi Arabia’s racing enthusiasts, who are enjoying a great week of racing events at the Saudi Grand Prix. Practices and qualifying sessions are taking place at the 6.174km Jeddah Corniche Circuit, the second longest circuit on the F1 calendar, in the lead up to the week’s main racing event on March 9th.