The 2023 Formula 1 calendar was officially revealed earlier this week, much to the delight of Formula 1 fans across the globe. However, one racing circuit, in particular, has disappointed supporters. The Jeddah Corniche Circuit originally featured on the Formula One calendar in 2021 and was supposed to be a temporary home for the grand Prix before transferring to Qiddiya in Riyadh. The Jeddah circuit, though, seems to be on the schedule for at least another four years.
The Qiddiya site is part of a new recreational complex being developed on the outskirts of Riyadh. When finished, it will have an FIA Grade 1 track capable of holding F1 races, as well as a safari, water park, and the world’s fastest, tallest, and longest roller coaster. However, according to Motorsport.com, Formula One will not relocate to the new venue until later this decade.
The Qiddiya site is being built in three parts, with the first phase, which contains “300 activities,” expected to be completed by the end of 2023 and the final phase expected to be completed by 2026. As a consequence, Formula One will not move from Jeddah to Qiddiya until much later this decade. And, with a race scheduled for 2023 and the Saudi race slated to continue until 2030, the Corniche track is destined to host many more races.
Race organisers intend to modify the track to suit the expansion. Unfortunately, these modifications will not alter the circuit’s present format, which has been lambasted by both fans and teams. Among the alterations are the conversion of several temporary structures on the site into permanent ones. After being overshadowed by a missile attack on a neighbouring Aramco oil complex before the 2022 event, Saudi Arabia’s sports minister has guaranteed that the event would be “safer” in the future.
Overall, although the new Qiddiya track promises to be an exciting and cutting-edge site, Formula 1 fans will have to wait a few more years. In the interim, they will have to make do with the Jeddah circuit, which has garnered negative feedback from the F1 community.
