FIA Makes Changes To Saudi Arabian Grand Prix After Safety Concerns
The Jeddah Corniche Circuit (JCC) in Saudi Arabia is set to be more exciting and safer for drivers in the upcoming Grand Prix. Organisers have revealed a series of changes to the track layout, following consultation with the FIA, F1, and drivers.
The inaugural 2021 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix was thrilling, as drivers navigated the world's fastest street circuit, with its tight corners and poor visibility. But feedback from drivers led to improvements ahead of the 2022 race, including widening the circuit in places and making it safer.
- Saudi Motorsport Company
Now, the promoters have gone even further, with major changes to high-speed turns and blind corners. At turns 22 and 23, speeds have been reduced by around 50km/h by adjusting fence placement and adding a bevelled kerb. Similar kerbs have been added to turns 4, 8, 10, 11, 17, and 23, while new rumble lines will deter drivers from running wide and slow them down.
The tricky turns 14 and 20 have been opened up by pushing back the fences, improving sight-lines for drivers. The right-hand wall at turn 14 has been moved back 7.5 metres, and the left-hand wall at turn 20 has moved back five metres. Turns 8 and 10 have also seen their walls pushed back for better visibility.
- Saudi Motorsport Company
Martin Whitaker, chief executive of the Saudi Motorsport Company, said:
"The evolution of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit continues apace, and we are excited to add these further tweaks to our magnificent track. It is vital for any circuit to listen and learn from those racing on it and use their feedback to grow and improve at all times."
With the changes, the JCC is set to become an even more exciting and exhilarating venue for F1 racing. The 2023 Grand Prix promises to be a spectacle like no other, with better sight-lines and most importantly, safety measures in place. The world's greatest drivers will once again battle it out under the lights, and F1 fans can't wait to see who will come out on top.