First look at Qiddiya Speed Park, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious new Formula 1 circuit – PHOTOS. Construction continues on Saudi Arabia’s Qiddiya Speed Park.

Here are the first images of the track, which will feature an elevation change of 108 meters, as well as a spectacular opening corner that will reach the height of a 20-story building.

The situation in the Middle East

Formula 1 has entered a prolonged break starting this week, a pause that will last until early May. This interruption, compared to what had originally been planned in the official calendar, was not scheduled in any way, but has become unavoidable following the outbreak of war in the Middle East, which has involved several nations in the region. Among them are Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, with the latter originally set to host the Formula 1 circus on April 19 at the Jeddah circuit.

Work continues despite everything

Meanwhile, near the Saudi capital Riyadh, construction is steadily progressing on the circuit that, according to current plans, is expected to host Formula 1 starting from the 2028 season: the Qiddiya Speed Park. Designed by former Formula 1 driver Alexander Wurz and engineered by Hermann Tilke, the circuit will be part of one of the most spectacular sports and entertainment complexes ever envisioned in the history of Formula 1.

One of the most striking features will undoubtedly be Turn 1, known as ‘The Blade’, which will rise to the height of a 20-story building. The circuit itself will combine elements of both street tracks and permanent racing facilities, with a dramatic elevation change of as much as 108 meters.

In addition, the ambition behind the project is to make the circuit the longest on the Formula 1 calendar, surpassing the current record held by Spa-Francorchamps, as well as to build the largest central grandstand in the championship. The layout will be designed to meet the highest safety standards, allowing it to host not only Formula 1 races but also events from other major motorsport categories, including MotoGP.