The 2021 F1 calendar will include an all-new race in Saudi Arabia, with news that Jeddah will host the inaugural Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia in November 2021.
The event will see the world’s best drivers and builders compete on the city streets in an amazing night race.
The 2021 race, the first of its kind in a long-standing partnership between Formula 1 and the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation (SAMF), will take place on the Jeddah Corniche, which stretches along the banks of the Red Sea, providing a stunning coastal backdrop for a weekend full of live motorsport and entertainment. And the culture that will control the second largest city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Read more: Everything you need to know about the new F1 race in Saudi Arabia
The rest of the 2021 F1 schedule is due to be announced in due course.
“We are excited to welcome Saudi Arabia into Formula 1 for the 2021 season and we welcome the announcement after speculation in recent days,” said Chase Carey, Chairman and CEO of Formula 1.
“The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is a country that is fast becoming a center for sport and entertainment with many major events taking place there in recent years, and we are very pleased that Formula 1 will be participating there from next season.
“The region is very important to us, and with 70% of Saudi Arabia’s population under the age of 30, we are excited about the potential to reach new fans and bring our current fans around the world exciting races from an amazing historic site. We will be publishing our complete tentative calendar for 2021 in the coming weeks and it will be presented. To the World Motor Sports Council for approval. “
His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Turki Al-Faisal Al Saud, Minister of Sports, added: “The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is accelerating forward, and the speed, energy and excitement of Formula 1 perfectly reflects the transformational journey the country is going through. As we have seen in recent years, our employees want to be at the heart of The most important moments in live sports and entertainment, and it is no bigger than Formula 1.
“No matter where in the world it takes place, Formula 1 is an event that brings people together to celebrate an occasion that goes far beyond sport. We look forward to sharing this unique experience and sharing Jeddah with the world. For many Saudis this will be a dream come true.”
His Royal Highness Prince Khalid bin Sultan Al-Faisal, President of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, added: “Today is the cornerstone in every sense of the word.” “I firmly believe that the Grand Prix of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will be the largest sporting event hosted in the history of our country and has the power to change lives and perceptions and reach new audiences and communities like never before. Making sports icons and historical teams race in Saudi Arabia in front of young fans and families is A real game changer.
“We do not have a rich motorsport heritage, but in a short period of time as a federation we have gained a strong reputation for presenting world-class international events such as Formula E and Dakar Rally. As a result, Saudi Arabia is a de facto home to millions of young motorsport enthusiasts. Many of them will already smile. And the countdown to see their heroes begins in November 2021. Our plans will see us take sport to more people through a celebration that reaches all communities and is open to all. “
