Jeddah’s Corniche circuit hosted its first F1 race in 2021, becoming the fastest street circuit on the calendar but drawing criticism from some drivers due to the tight layout and poor visibility in blind corners.
Ahead of its second race in March 2022, Jeddah has made a series of changes to the track to improve sightlines and make it safer for drivers, as well as widening the circuit in places.
But grand prix organizers have now revealed a series of further changes will be made ahead of the next race on March 19 next year.
One of the biggest changes is to the high-speed left-right sequence at turns 22 and 23, where efforts have been made to reduce the speed by around 50 km/h by adjusting the placement of the fence and adding a bevelled edge.
Changes have also been made to Turns 14 and 20, two of the fastest blind corners on the circuit, where the fences have been pushed back to open the corner further and provide better visibility for the drivers.
Jeddah lap 14-01
Photo by: Saudi Motorsport Company
At Turn 14, the wall on the right side of the lane was moved back 7.5 meters, while the left wall at Turn 20 was moved back 5 meters. The walls have also been pushed back at turns 8 and 10 to improve visibility.
Beveled curbs have also been added to turns 4, 8, 10, 11, 17 and 23, while new ‘rumble lines’ have been placed at turns 3, 14, 19, 20 and 21 to deter drivers from racing wide and slow them down. .
“The evolution of Jeddah Corniche Circuit continues apace and we are delighted to add these additional adjustments to our magnificent track following positive consultation with the FIA, F1 and the drivers,” said Martin Whitaker, managing director of the Saudi Motorsport Company. .
“The previous two races here in Jeddah have already confirmed the JCC as the fastest and most thrilling street circuit in the world and these new developments will only add to the spectacle that fans can expect to see next March when F1 will return to our city.
“It is vital for any circuit to listen and learn from those who race there and to use their feedback to grow and improve at all times.
“We are confident that these changes will lead to even faster, more exciting and – above all – safe racing and we look forward to seeing the world’s greatest drivers compete again here in the spotlight in 2023.”
Jeddah runway layout
Photo by: Saudi Motorsport Company
