Jeddah, Saudi Arabia - (December 4th) – The first ever Formula 1 Free Practice sessions took place yesterday on the brand-new Jeddah Corniche Circuit, on a sunny day at the FORMULA 1 STC SAUDI ARABIAN GRAND PRIX 2021. After months of planning and many hours of hard work, Formula 1 cars were finally able to test the newest, fastest and longest street track in F1 ahead of what will prove to be a crucial race in this nail-biting championship battle.

 

In addition, the first of three planned special demonstration runs by Alan Jones’ 1980 World Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championship Winning car – the legendary Williams FW07B – took place on track, in celebration of the Kingdom’s historic ties to Formula 1 and of the late Sir Frank Williams, who sadly passed earlier this week. Famously backed by several Saudi businesses at the time, the FW07B, is one of the most celebrated cars in F1 history and was specially restored to race at this weekend’s inaugural Saudi F1 Grand prix.

 

After the excitement on track, fans were treated to a stunning live performance by Egyptian icon, Mohamed Hamaki who performed hits from his most recent album ‘Ya Fatteny’ in addition to his many hits. He was joined by dance music legend, DJ Snake, who made sure the adrenaline kept flowing at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit with an incredible set list including some of his biggest hits such as Let Me Love You, You Know You Like It and Taki Taki to round of an incredible first day at the FORMULA 1 STC SAUDI ARABIAN GRAND PRIX 2021.

 

As we enter Day 2 of the debut F1 race weekend in Saudi Arabia, all attention will turn to this evening’s all important Qualifying session. After a final practice session, it will be time for the world’s greatest drivers to show how well they have mastered the high-speed Jeddah Corniche Circuit as they battle it out for that vital pole position. Both Lewis Hamilton and Max Verstappen will be pushing their cars to the limit to secure the crucial spot at the top of the grid ahead of Sunday’s potential title-decider. With so many unknowns on this new circuit, this is a Qualifying session not to be missed!

 

This evening, the entertainment levels will go up a further notch when multi-award-winning singer, songwriter & dancer, Jason Derulo and iconic DJ, Tiësto will headline the post-Qualifying concert on the Main Stage.

 

Here is what the drivers had to say about their first taste of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit:

 

Lewis Hamilton: "It’s unbelievably quick. It’s really incredibly fast and a lot of grip as well. If you can get the rhythm, it’s a beautiful track”

 

Sebastian Vettel: "The track is very fast and very challenging for us and has very good grip. There is no room for mistakes, but it is fun.”

 

Valtteri Bottas: "It’s quite cool, hardcore and full power and that is what we enjoy!”

 

Sergio Perez: "It’s a very nice fast and flowing circuit. A very enjoyable one. A lot of fun out there. It will be an interesting race!”

 

Pierre Gasly: "I really like driving the track, the corners are amazing and there’s a big rush of adrenaline when you’re out there!”

 

Daniel Ricciardo: "It’s a good track, really fast but a lot of flow to it and keeps you busy! It’s like a maze but it is really great fun!”

 

Yuki Tsunoda: "It’s a really fun track, especially the first sector. I’ve never driven a circuit with corners like this before, so it’s been pretty special.”

 

Antonio Giovinazzi: "The first feeling on the track was really great. It’s really fast and a lot of grip, so really nice to drive!”