The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix organizers have revealed that a number of minor alterations would be made to the Jeddah Corniche Circuit ahead of the Formula One race in March.
At 2021, Formula One raced in Jeddah for the first time, with Lewis Hamilton triumphing against Max Verstappen in a thrilling opening race.
Drivers had concerns about visibility at a number of blind corners, which organisers have since revealed will be addressed before F1 returns to Jeddah in two months.
“The length of time between the two races has enabled us to reflect on some aspects that did and didn’t work,” said Saudi Arabian GP CEO Martin Whitaker. “And we have been striving to improve on some areas for our second event.
“Firstly, there are going to be one or two slight changes to the track. These tweaks are directly related to a drivers’ sightline from the cockpit. It’s minimal work, but it will help improve forward visibility in a couple of corners.
“Secondly, we will make some small modifications to the barriers that will favour the lines the drivers take around the course.”
While F1 currently races in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia is currently constructing another circuit near Riyadh dubbed as ‘Qiddiya’.
Saudi Arabia’s focus, according to Whitaker, is still on upgrading the Jeddah event.
“The most important thing is that the long-term future of a race in Saudi Arabia is secure,” he added. The construction of Qiddiya near Riyadh is ongoing, but the focus is very much on Jeddah at the moment and about maximising the opportunities on this fantastic circuit.
“There are very few like the one we have on the Corniche, which is challenging, dynamic, long, and super-fast and in such a stunning location. Jeddah continues to be a dynamic shop window for the country, not only from a sporting perspective but for the business community too.
“We plan to build awareness that F1 is a great platform, not only for Saudi companies to showcase their businesses but to welcome global corporations to the country too. Formula 1 presents a great opportunity to do business and also offers a backdrop for people to enjoy networking in a more relaxed atmosphere.”
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