Saudi Arabia Grand Prix: Presentation of the Jeddah Circuit

And off we go for another Grand Prix weekend, the second of the year, where all eyes will undoubtedly be on Aston Martin after the impressive performance of their two cars in Bahrain. 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. Relive that moment in the article “Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia: key points to know” available at [link].

“Check out our article on the highlights of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.”

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. This weekend, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will see Pirelli prioritize mid-range tires.

“The tires favored by Pirelli are those from the mid-range.”

It is also a temporary urban circuit – which, however, has permanent sections. 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).

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 circuit is also very fast, with expected top speeds exceeding 320 km/h. 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.

Another peculiarity: it is a race that takes place at night. In this context, it will be even more interesting to see how rookies Logan Sargeant, Nyck de Vries and Oscar Piastri perform. Especially the first one, after his good performance in Bahrain with his 12th position, very close to scoring points.

Note this year: DRS zone relocated to Jeddah

“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.”

The one who crosses the finish line on Sunday will have to complete 50 laps of the circuit for an estimated distance of 308.45 km. The record for the fastest lap belongs to Lewis Hamilton, for his victory in 2021, with a time of 1:30.734. Who can beat that?

To find out, everything starts with the first free practice session of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, this Friday at 2:30 pm. All the schedules to know can be found here: in the TV program.”