Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya unveils immersive F1 circuit

Saudi Arabia‘s Qiddiya has unveiled a new motorsport circuit where Formula 1 drivers will race past the giga-project’s theme parks and immersive attractions.

Designed to be a future venue for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, an F1 motor racing event, the new track is located in the Qiddiya City destination for entertainment, sports and culture.

Called Speed Park Track, it will sit at the centre of an area dedicated to motorsports, and will boast some of racing’s most recognisable track design features, Qiddiya said.

Unique racing experience in Qiddiya City

Abdullah Al-Dawood, managing director of Qiddiya Investment Company, said the circuit 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,” he added.

Designed by Austrian former F1 driver Alex Wurz and German circuit designer Hermann Tilke, the racetrack features 21 corners and a a unique elevated first corner called Blade, which rises more than 20 storeys above the ground.

Additionally, the Speed Park Track will be integrated into Qiddiya’s surrounding attractions to bring entertainment, sports and culture together.

The Blade turn, for example, will rise above a music venue, while drivers will race next to Falcon’s Flight at Six Flags Qiddiya. Sections of the track will also run alongside to Qiddiya’s water park.

Earlier this year, Qiddiya unveiled the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium, a multi-use venue to host some of the kingdom’s biggest sports, entertainment and cultural events.

Before that, Qiddiya launched its gaming and esports district, also part of Qiddiya City.

Images courtesy of Qiddiya Investment Company