Saudi Arabia Grand Prix: Presentation of the Jeddah Circuit
Formula 1 is back in Saudi Arabia this weekend, for only its third edition. Here's everything you need to know about the brand new Jeddah circuit. To get you well-prepared for this second stage of the season, here are the key facts to know about the Jeddah circuit, which has only been on the calendar for three years. The first edition took place on December 5, 2021, with Lewis Hamilton emerging victorious.
Technical Layout and Design
The Jeddah circuit is located on the shores of the Red Sea and measures 6.174 km in length, making it one of the longest Formula 1 circuits in the world. It includes 27 turns, which is the highest number on the calendar, most of which are fast and twisty curves, as well as two long straight lines that offer great overtaking opportunities. It was designed by the German architect Hermann Tilke, who has also developed no less than 16 Formula 1 circuits around the world, such as Sakhir (Bahrain), Yas Marina (Abu Dhabi), and Baku (Azerbaijan). It is also a temporary urban circuit – which, however, has permanent sections.
A Technical and Fast Circuit
The layout of the Jeddah circuit is rather technical and therefore presents several challenges for the drivers, including elevation changes and high-speed turns. The average speed on the Jeddah Corniche circuit is approximately 250 km/h, making it the second fastest on the calendar after Monza, also known as the “temple of speed”. As a result, Jeddah holds the title for the fastest urban circuit ever seen in Formula 1. The circuit is also very fast, with expected top speeds exceeding 320 km/h. Another peculiarity: it is a race that takes place at night.
Circuit Key Specifications:
- Circuit Length: 6.174 km
- Number of Turns: 27 (the highest number on the calendar)
- Average Speed: Approximately 250 km/h
- Top Speed: Exceeding 320 km/h
- Race Distance: 50 laps for an estimated distance of 308.45 km
- Fastest Lap Record: 1:30.734 (Lewis Hamilton, 2021)
Recent Updates and Race Weekend Facts
Regarding regulatory changes, the FIA has moved the third DRS zone of the circuit, now located 170 meters after the last turn, at the start of the main straight. This measure aims to prevent drivers from crossing the circuit boundary at this turn, as was the case in 2021 and 2022. Additionally, for this weekend, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will see Pirelli prioritize mid-range tires.