Jeddah: The Formula One STC Saudi Grand Prix International Car Race kicks off today (Friday) in Jeddah. Michael Masi, director of the program and in charge of security, inspected and ensured the Jeddah Corniche roads. The quality of the track and the surrounding facilities were evaluated during the inspection. Authorities said he expressed complete satisfaction after a detailed examination.
He added that this would be a great journey for everyone involved in making Formula One racing a reality for the first time in Saudi Arabia, and that Saudi Arabia would be able to host the competition at a high level in compliance with FIA grade standards. This will be a great experience for drivers and teams. He added that the conclusion of the competition, which was full of excitement and surprise, would present an enjoyable weekend.
20 world-class athletes will compete at the Jeddah Corniche for speed. The test run will start this afternoon. The final is on Sunday. Khalid bin Sultan Al Abdullah Al Faisal, Chairman of the Saudi Motorsport Company and the Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation (SAMF), welcomed the positive results of yesterday’s final inspection.
“We are delighted to have joined hands with Michael Maci to complete this and are pleased to announce to the world that Jeddah is one of the newest and fastest street circuits in the Corniche circuit,” he said. It is an indescribable achievement that we have completed the track at this level in just eight months. The hard work and dedication of the staff helped make this possible. He added that this weekend will witness a high level of unforgettable car racing.
The Saudi Motor Sport Company has successfully completed most of the preparatory work required for the Formula One race. Today, the best drivers will compete on the fastest and longest street circuit in the world. Not only is the track set up in eight months, it also becomes the fastest F1 circuit ever built. It is estimated to reach an average speed of 250 kilometers per hour. When the F1’s superstars make 27 turns, they expect it to reach speeds of up to 322 kilometers per hour.
The length of the Cornish circuit is 6.175 km. This is the second longest circuit in F1 history after the legendary De Spa-Francorchamps. In addition, the drag reduction system, arranged one after the other, increases the speed of race cars and ensures opportunities to overtake one another faster. Being able to jump day and night with the help of sophisticated lighting systems is also a unique experience for the audience.
