Saudi Arabia to stage a night race in 2021

Formula One has added a new venue to its 2021 calendar with Saudi Arabia becoming the latest addition to next year’s schedule that will include 23 races.

Formula One has confirmed that it will visit Jeddah in 2021 that will play host to the inaugural Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. The country will become the 33rd country to host a round of the Formula 1 world championship.

Although the Covid-19 pandemic is making it difficult to lay down the plans for next year’s schedule, but the first Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is currently set to be the penultimate round of the 2021 F1 season, with a provisional date of November 28.

Situated on the Red Coast, the picturesque city that is home to around 3.5 million people will host a night race on a street circuit in the city while a new purpose-built track at the Al-Qiddiya entertainment complex is being constructed.

“We are excited to welcome Saudi Arabia to Formula 1 for the 2021 season and welcome their announcement following speculation in recent days,” said Chase Carey, Chairman and CEO of Formula 1.

“Saudi Arabia is a country that is rapidly becoming a hub for sports and entertainment with many major events taking place there in recent years and we are very pleased that Formula 1 will be racing there from next season.

“The region is hugely important to us and with 70% of the population of Saudi being under 30 we are excited about the potential to reach new fans and bring our existing fans around the world exciting racing from an incredible and historic location. We will be publishing our full provisional 2021 calendar in the coming weeks and this will be submitted to the World Motor Sport Council for approval.”

Commenting on the announcement, Abdulaziz Bin Turki AlFaisal Al Saud, the Minister of Sport added: “Saudi Arabia is accelerating forward and the speed, energy, excitement of Formula 1 perfectly reflects the transformational journey the country is on. As we’ve witnessed in recent years our people want to be at the very heart of the biggest moments in live sport and entertainment. And they don’t come any bigger than Formula 1.

“No matter where in the world it’s held, Formula 1 is an event that brings people together to celebrate an occasion that goes far beyond sport. We look forward to sharing this unique experience and sharing Jeddah with the world. For many Saudis this will be a dream come true.”

The remainder of the 2021 F1 schedule is set to be announced in due course.