The first computer-generated images of Saudi Arabia’s new Speed Park Track, located in Qiddiya City, have been revealed. The track isn’t expected to be ready at least until 2027, but some interesting features have been revealed, including a 20-storey elevation for Turn 1.
- Designed by Hermann Tilke and Alex Wurz
- 21 corners, three DRS zones
- Mix of permanent and street sections
Will F1 race at the new Qiddiya track?
F1 has signed an agreement to race in Saudi Arabia until the end of 2030. The Jeddah street track has been the home of the Saudi Arabian GP since 2021 and will host the second round of the 2024 season this weekend. However, the new Qiddiya venue is expected to eventually replace Jeddah on the F1 calendar.
Qiddiya F1 track details
Located on the outskirts of Riyadh, the new Speed Park Track has been designed by Hermann Tilke (who had worked on the Buddh International Circuit, Circuit of the Americas, Yas Marina Circuit and more) along with inputs from former F1 driver Alex Wurz. A permanent circuit section will be combined with a street section that runs through a number of attractions across Qiddiya City.
It will follow an anti-clockwise layout and feature a total of 21 corners and three DRS activation zones. Cars are projected to a reach a top speed of over 325kph on the track.
One of the standout features is the Turn 1 section, called the ‘Blade’. The elevated corner rises 70 metres – the height of a 20-storey building – with a concert space right under it. A section of the track will racers run alongside the Six Flags Qiddiya City rollercoaster – pegged to be the world’s tallest and fastest rollercoaster once it’s ready.
There are also plans for terrace-style viewing sections that will replace conventional grandstands.
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Dipan Sur
