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Everything You Need to Know Before Watching the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix

  • Writer: Naomi Blair
    Naomi Blair
  • Apr 18
  • 3 min read

Introduction to the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix


The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is one of the most exhilarating races on the Formula 1 calendar. Held at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, this night race offers high-speed action along the Red Sea coastline. Since its debut in 2021, the circuit has quickly gained a reputation for its fast layout and challenging corners, making it a favorite among drivers and fans alike.


Track Overview – Jeddah Corniche Circuit


  • Track Length: 6.174 km (3.836 miles)

  • Race Distance: 50 laps (308.7 km total)

  • Lap Record: 1:30.734 (Lewis Hamilton, 2021)​


The Jeddah Corniche Circuit is known for being the fastest street circuit in Formula 1, featuring 27 corners that test the precision and bravery of drivers. Key sections include:​


  • Turns 1–2: A tight chicane at the start, crucial for gaining positions off the line.

  • Turns 22–23: High-speed esses that challenge the car's stability.

  • Turn 27: A sharp left-hander leading onto the main straight, offering overtaking opportunities.​

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Tire Strategies & Weather Conditions


Given the high-speed nature of the circuit and its numerous corners, tire degradation is a significant factor. Teams often opt for a two-stop strategy to maintain optimal performance.​

Weather conditions in Jeddah are typically warm and dry, with temperatures around 30°C during the evening race sessions. The consistent climate allows teams to plan strategies without the unpredictability of rain.

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FRIDAY, APRIL 18 – FP1 AND FP2

Conditions: Fully sunny. Light northwesterly wind with gusts up to 30 kph, decreasing for FP2. FP1: 31°C // FP2: 29°C

Maximum temperature expected: 32 Celsius

Minimum temperature expected: 22 Celsius

Chance of rain: 0%


SATURDAY, APRIL 19 – FP3 AND QUALIFYING

Conditions: Sunny and hotter than previous days. Gentle northwesterly breeze with a peak in the middle afternoon. Gusts up to 30 kph. Decreasing by the evening. FP3: 32°C // Q: 31°C

Maximum temperature expected: 34 Celsius

Minimum temperature expected: 24 Celsius

Chance of rain: 0%

SUNDAY, APRIL 20 – RACE

Conditions: Same conditions as Saturday. Hot, dry and northwesterly breeze with gusts up to 35 kph during the day, decreasing for the race. Race start: 31°C

Maximum temperature expected: 34 Celsius

Minimum temperature expected: 25 Celsius

Chance of rain: 0%


Key Teams & Drivers to Watch


  • Max Verstappen (Red Bull): A dominant force in Jeddah, with victories in 2022 and 2024.

  • Lando Norris & Oscar Piastri (McLaren): Leading the drivers' standings, McLaren aims to continue their strong performance.

  • Lewis Hamilton (Ferrari): Adjusting to his new team, Hamilton looks to leverage his experience to climb the standings.


DRS & Overtaking Opportunities


The Jeddah Corniche Circuit features three DRS zones:​

  1. Main Straight: Facilitates overtaking into Turn 1.

  2. Between Turns 20 and 22: Allows for high-speed passes before the complex esses.

  3. Between Turns 25 and 27: Sets up overtakes into the final corner.​

These zones, combined with the circuit's layout, provide multiple opportunities for drivers to make strategic moves.​


My Fantasy Teams

These were the results from the Bahrain Grand Prix:

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These are my current teams going in to the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix:

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Not any major changes, all I did was switch out Bortoleto for Hadjar in Team 1 and activate the No Negatives chip for Team 2. Considering that I have Lawson and Stroll on my team, and the high likelihood of a crash given the difficulty of the track, I was not going to take any risks.


Memorable Moments at Jeddah


  • 2021: Lewis Hamilton wins the inaugural Saudi Arabian Grand Prix after a fierce battle with Verstappen.

  • 2022: Verstappen clinches victory in a thrilling race, showcasing the circuit's potential for close racing.

  • 2024: Red Bull dominates with a one-two finish, solidifying their prowess on street circuits.


How to Watch & Timing Info

To catch the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix, here’s the schedule

  • Friday (Apr 18) – Free Practice 1 & 2

  • Saturday (Apr 19) – Free Practice 3 & Qualifying

  • Sunday (Apr 20) – Race Day!


Where to Watch:

  • F1 TV Pro: Worldwide streaming.

  • Sky Sports F1: UK coverage.

  • ESPN: USA coverage.

  • Viaplay: Sweden and Netherlands coverage.


With its unique challenges and high-speed thrills, the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix promises to be a highlight of the 2025 Formula 1 season!


If you have not already done so, make your predictions here: https://f1predict.formula1.com/en/


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