Arab News

RIYADH: The Qiddiya megaproject in Riyadh is set to build one of the world’s most innovative motorsport tracks in a bid to make the Kingdom a top global racing destination.

The configurable Speed Park Track will be located in the center of Qiddiya City, the board of directors of the Qiddiya Investment Co. announced on Tuesday.

It will blend functionality with state-of-the-art technology as part of plans to host some of the world’s most prestigious racing events, a press release said.

The track will also boast some of motorsport’s most recognizable track design features. Its centerpiece will be the pioneering “Blade” at turn one — an elevated section that rises more than 20 stories above the ground.

Abdullah Al-Dawood, managing director of the Qiddiya Investment Co., said: “The Speed Park Track will be a true embodiment of Qiddiya’s power of play philosophy and will position Qiddiya City as the home of Saudi motorsport and one of the world’s leading motorsport venues.

“Visitors and spectators will be treated to one of the most unique and immersive race experiences in the world with this pioneering track, designed by race drivers, for race drivers, ready to host some of the world’s biggest motorsport events.”

The fast-flowing track is designed by Austrian former Formula One driver Alex Wurz and German circuit designer Hermann Tilke. It includes 21 corners and utilizes Qiddiya City’s dramatic landscape to create more than 108 meters of elevation gain per lap.

The circuit features street circuit and fast open track sections that are fully integrated into Qiddiya’s neighboring attractions.

Multiple vantage points for fans and viewing terraces will be constructed around the track.

The circuit will be integrated with surrounding attractions, with the “Blade” turn rising above a music venue below and drivers racing alongside Falcon’s flight, a record-breaking rollercoaster located at the neighboring Six Flags Qiddiya City. Sections of the track will also run alongside a water park.

A rendering of the track was released as part of the press release. It follows other construction announcements by the megaproject, including the Qiddiya Gaming & Esports District and the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Stadium.

Further details about the Speed Park Track are expected in the coming weeks.