The first feelings of F1 drivers on the Jeddah circuit
After completing the first two free practice sessions on the brand new circuit in Jeddah, drivers have already identified the challenges posed by this layout.
After nearly 2 hours of free practice session, the Jeddah circuit saw its first red flag in F1. It was towards the end of the second free practice session that Charles Leclerc violently crashed into the barriers. A crash that shows how this track leaves no room for any mistakes, as explained by Alonso.
« It’s a very, very spectacular turn because you drive between two walls at high speed. Any mistake could have serious consequences. Therefore, you have to be vigilant. », says Fernando Alonso.”
This circuit, defined as “the fastest urban circuit in the world”, remains very exciting for several drivers. Enormous speed and unprecedented turns, a mix that appeals to Formula 1 drivers.
Translate: “«It’s pretty hardcore. Quite close to the walls and at high speed, but that’s what you want. That’s what we appreciate and it certainly gives you a little adrenaline rush,” explains Valtteri Bottas.
Carlos Sainz said, « The intensity that this circuit provides you, the thrill and adrenaline, is something I haven’t experienced much since the time [of the Macau Grand Prix]”.
« Especially the first sector was really special. I have never driven this kind of corners. I really enjoyed it, until turn 13, it was completely new to me,” said Yuki Tsunoda.
But there is still a zone of mystery on this circuit and it concerns overtaking during the race. Several drivers have expressed their concerns about the difficulty of overtaking in Jeddah.
(I) I think it will unfortunately be quite difficult to overtake if you are a little at the same speed, explains Kimi Räikkönen.
« I don’t think it’s great for overtaking. I think we lack a good braking zone to overtake, says Lance Stroll.
One of the ways to check the overtaking conditions on the track during the race is to watch today’s F2 races as Fernando Alonso is going to do.
« I think that F2 will be a good reference for us, because we obviously have concerns about overtaking opportunities on an urban circuit. It’s going to be difficult. Qualifying will be very important. So I think that F2 will show us if it will be a good show on Sunday or not,” concluded Alonso.
