Jeddah track gets official FIA approval ahead of first F1 race

FIA race director Michael Masi conducted a thorough track inspection of the new 6km venue on Thursday morning, before giving Jeddah the seal of approval that it is fit for purpose to host F1. 

The circuit and surrounding facilities were only completed last week after a mammoth eight-month effort since work commenced earlier this year. 

“It has been an impressive journey for all involved to make the first FIA F1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix a reality, and the progress that I have seen on each of my visits over recent months has been remarkable,” Masi said. 

“The circuit itself has now been completed to a high level and complies with FIA Grade 1 standards that we require for hosting a grand prix. 

“The Jeddah Corniche Circuit will provide an interesting new challenge for the drivers and teams, and I’m looking forward to another exciting weekend as this fantastic 2021 F1 season draws closer to its conclusion.”

Jeddah has been billed as the ‘fastest street circuit in the world’ and is the second-longest track on the calendar, behind only Spa-Francorchamps. 

Drivers are expected to reach average speeds of 250km/h, while three “potential” DRS Zones have been marked out. 

“We are thrilled to have joined Michael Masi today as he completed his final inspection of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit,” Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation chairman Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal said.

“We are even more delighted that he has given it his expert seal of approval, meaning that we can let the world know that we are ready to race this weekend on the world’s newest and fastest street circuit. 

“The fact we have reached this point after only 8 months is an achievement that cannot be overstated. The hard work and dedication of all our staff has helped to make this happen and we can now look forward to an unforgettable race weekend.”