Saudi Arabian Grand Prix track changes revealed after driver criticism
The FIA and Saudi Grand Prix race organisers have listened to driver feedback in making the adjustments to the Jeddah Corniche Circuit
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.The FIA have revealed the changes made to the controversial high-speed speed circuit at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix ahead of this weekend’s race following criticism from drivers over the safety of the track.
Last season’s inaugural race at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit saw two red flags and a number of high-speed crashes, with drivers highlighting the danger of blind corners and the narrowness of the barriers.
While the track was a hit with many drivers due to its speed and difficulty, George Russell, the representative of the F1 drivers union, said the circuit was “lacking a lot from a safety perspective”.
Formula One returns to Jeddah this weekend for the second race of the season, after the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix moved up the 2022 calendar, and Niels Wittich, the FIA’s race director, has confirmed the changes that have been made.
Race organisers said minor tweaks had been made at several corners, including Turns 2, 3, 14 and 21, to improve visibility with the barriers moved back by around 1.5 metres to reveal more of the corner upon entry.
The barrier on the final corner, Turn 27, has also been moved back, widening the track to 12 metres at the point where Max Verstappen hit the wall in last season’s Q3.
A smooth face has also been added to the concrete barriers at the Turns 4, 16, 22 and 24 apex. This is following request from the drivers and will allow them to favour the racing line.
In last season’s race, Mick Schumacher crashed into the wall in the first of two red flags at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, before Nikita Mazepin collided into the back of George Russell as the Williams driver attempted to avoid hitting Charles Leclerc and Sergio Perez.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments