The Middle Eastern country has unveiled designs for a new Formula 1 track currently being built in Qiddiya City, close to the capital city of Riyadh. This impressive circuit is set to host the nation’s grand prix by the end of the decade, featuring 21 corners and towering over 20 stories high.
Location
The 21-corner circuit will be situated within the upcoming Qiddiya City development near the capital city of Riyadh. Saudi Arabia envisions Qiddiya City as a hub for various entertainment and tourism offerings, including concert venues, theme parks, esports facilities, and the racing circuit.
Who Is Behind the F1 Track
Former Formula 1 driver Alexander Wurz, aged 50, is among the architects behind Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Qiddiya racing circuit project. Wurz, who made his F1 debut in 1997 with teams like Benetton, McLaren, and Williams, retired in 2009. He ventured into other racing competitions, such as the 24 Hours of Le Mans and the FIA World Endurance Championship.
Operating WurzDesign alongside his father, Franz Wurz, the Austrian collaborated with renowned circuit designer Hermann Tilke on Saudi’s proposed track. Notably, the plans highlight elevation changes as a key feature.
While Saudi Arabia joined the F1 calendar in 2021, utilizing the high-speed Jeddah street circuit along the Corniche coast, discussions about a purpose-built facility have been ongoing.
Layout of the Track
The newly unveiled digital renderings of the Qiddiya racing circuit depict a high-speed, anti-clockwise track dubbed the ‘Blade’, boasting up to 200mph speeds and an impressive elevation gain of 108 meters across its 21 corners.
The LED-lit inaugural turn, towering 70 meters high, sets the tone for the track’s thrilling design.
Designed to integrate seamlessly with other attractions within the Qiddiya project, the track features a combination of street circuit sections and fast, flowing stretches. The ‘Blade’ section will soar above a music venue, while other segments will traverse past roller coasters and a water theme park.
According to QIC managing director Abdullah Aldawood, the aim is to host Formula 1 races and other racing categories. He emphasized that the Speed Park Track embodies Qiddiya’s “power of play” philosophy, positioning Qiddiya City as a global premier destination for motorsport.
Aldawood envisions visitors and spectators experiencing one of the most unique racing atmospheres, with a pioneering track ready to host major motorsport events.
Adding to the excitement and immersive experience, the track will seamlessly blend with nearby attractions. The ‘Blade’ turn will soar above a music venue, while drivers will race alongside Falcon’s Flight, the world’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster, at the adjacent Six Flags Qiddiya City. Portions of the track will also run parallel to a water theme park within the city.
Qiddiya’s “power of play” concept draws on extensive research highlighting the importance of play in human development. Research indicates that recreational activities positively impact society, fostering empathy social cohesion, and bridging individual differences.
The Bottom Line
Crafting a Formula 1 racetrack for Riyadh represents an exceptional chance to spotlight the city’s vitality and aspirations on the world platform.
By focusing on innovation, sustainability, and community involvement, Riyadh can position itself as a top spot for motorsport aficionados and enhance its reputation as a key center for sports and entertainment in the Middle East.
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