Saudi Arabia is set to host the 2024 season opener for the Formula One (F1) racing championship, marking the first time the country has hosted the prestigious event. The announcement was made by F1’s CEO, Stefano Domenicali, during a press conference in the Saudi capital of Riyadh.
The event is set to take place at the Jeddah Street Circuit, a new track that will be built specifically for the occasion. The circuit will be located along the city’s waterfront, offering stunning views of the Red Sea.
The decision to hold the season opener in Saudi Arabia has been met with some criticism, as the country has faced allegations of human rights abuses in the past. However, the Saudi Arabian authorities have stated that they will work to ensure the safety and security of all participants and spectators at the event.
F1 has faced criticism in the past for holding races in countries with questionable human rights records, such as Azerbaijan and Bahrain. However, the organization has stated that it is committed to working with host countries to promote positive change and to use the global platform of F1 to bring attention to important issues.
The Jeddah Street Circuit is expected to be a challenging track for drivers, with a mix of high-speed straights and tight corners. It will feature a mix of temporary and permanent facilities, including a paddock area for teams and a grandstand for spectators.
The race is set to take place in November 2024, with the exact date to be announced at a later time. It will be the first of a multi-year deal between F1 and Saudi Arabia, with the country set to host other races in the coming years.
