USD 500 Million Formula 1 Track Planned for Qiddiya City

A purpose-built Formula 1 circuit estimated at USD 500 million will be constructed in Qiddiya City near Riyadh, with the venue referred to as the Qiddiya Speed Park Track. The facility is planned as the long-term home of Saudi motorsport, moving from the temporary street layout in Jeddah Corniche Circuit, which has hosted the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix since 2021.

The design is a collaboration between track architect Hermann Tilke and former Formula 1 driver Alex Wurz. Preliminary specifications outline a 21-corner layout that blends permanent circuit segments with street-style sections running through Qiddiya’s attractions. The circuit will include three activation zones intended to facilitate overtaking, elevation changes of up to 108 metres across the lap, and projected top speeds exceeding 325 km/h on the straights.

A signature feature of the design is the first corner, known as “Blade,” which climbs approximately 70 metres—around the height of a 20-storey building. Plans indicate a concert venue positioned beneath this elevated turn. Additional concepts integrate sections of the track alongside an amusement park rollercoaster inspired by the planned Six Flags at Qiddiya, while spectator areas are set to use terrace-style viewing and balconies in place of traditional grandstands.

While the new circuit is developed, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will continue to be staged at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. The track forms part of the wider Qiddiya City development’s entertainment and tourism offerings, combining motorsport with leisure, hospitality and live events at a single site.