Qatar’s Lusail International Circuit has completed extensive renovations ahead of this weekend’s Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix.
After hosting the inaugural Qatar Grand Prix in 2021 in place of the cancelled Australian Grand Prix, F1 returns to Lusail following a year’s absence.
The circuit reached a 10-year agreement with the sport in 2021, and renovation work has now been completed reflecting the track’s commitment to hosting major motorsport events.
The work, led by Qatar’s Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’, has seen the construction of new state-of-the-art facilities at the circuit, as well as changes designed to ‘enhance the experience for drivers and racegoers’.
Grandstand capacity has been increased to 40,000 with parking infrastructure and circuit accessibility also improved. The venue also offers a larger public fan zone and several new VIP areas including F1’s Paddock Club.
Ashghal also facilitated improvements to 21km of surrounding roads and intersections for public ease of access.
An overhaul of paddock facilities sees the introduction of an ultramodern media centre and improvements to the medical centre and garages.
The circuit also revealed that it now homes 50 pit boxes, which organisers boast to be the highest amount of any track on the F1 calendar.
A major landscaping effort has created 180,000 square meters of green space including the planting of over 2,500 trees. This includes an elevated green viewing area at Turn 1 accessible to all general admission ticket holders known as ‘Lusail hill’.
“This stunning and extensive remodelling is the product of months of hard work, ambition, and imagination, and is a fitting introduction to what promises to be a thrilling weekend of motorsports,” said Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit.
“Our long-term agreement with F1 marks a significant advancement for Qatar, which is rapidly gaining a reputation as a renowned host for some of the world’s most prestigious sporting events, that are sure to serve fans on all fronts.”
Safety measures have also been improved at the 5.38km circuit with the installation of 2.5km of new debris fencing.
Swiss company Geobrugg’s six-metre spacing solution was selected to improve fan views without compromising on safety.
Mobile debris fences can also be used to create shortcuts at Turns 2 and 10 to form different track configurations providing options for the range of series set to visit Lusail International Circuit in the coming years.
“We are expecting large number of fans to attend Qatar GP,” said Amro Al Hamad, CEO of Lusail International Circuit and Executive Director of Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation.
“That said, spectator safety is of paramount importance to us. We have ensured to incorporate highest levels of safety measures on the track.”
Working in close co-operation with both the FIA and motorcycle governing body FIM, upgrades have also been made to the digital flag panels and marshal posts surrounding the circuit while advanced light systems are now in place to ensure maximum visibility during night racing.
Simulations have been completed to ensure that the circuit continues to meet the standards of both governing bodies.
The circuit’s current deal with MotoGP runs through 2031. Lusail will also host the World Endurance Championship’s season opener in 2024.
