Lusail International Circuit revamps for F1 Qatar Grand Prix: Safety and excitement in full gear
- Rob Fleming
- 28 September 2023
In anticipation of the highly awaited Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix's return, Lusail International Circuit has undergone extensive transformations.
The inaugural race in 2021 and a brief hiatus during the FIFA World Cup in 2022 set the stage for this momentous comeback scheduled for October 6-8. With an influx of enthusiastic fans expected, the circuit has left no stone unturned to ensure an unforgettable experience.
The enhancements at Lusail International Circuit are nothing short of remarkable. The grandstands now boast a capacity of 40,000, complemented by upgraded parking infrastructure. The fan zone and VIP areas, including the prestigious F1 Paddock Club, have been expanded to cater to the diverse needs of Formula 1 enthusiasts.
Paddock facilities have received a substantial facelift, featuring new state-of-the-art media and medical centres, pit buildings, and garages. Impressively, the circuit now offers a whopping 50 pit boxes, positioning it as the track with the most pit boxes on the Formula 1 calendar. Local roads and intersections have also been revamped to ensure smooth access for both personnel and fans.
Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, president of Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit, expressed his excitement, stating, "This stunning and extensive remodeling 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. 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 remains paramount at Lusail International Circuit, and this commitment is evident in the installation of new debris fences by Swiss company Geobrugg, spanning over 2.5 kilometres of the circuit. A six-meter debris fence post spacing solution, compliant with FIA Grade 1 Circuit Safety standards, has been chosen, offering spectators enhanced views of the track while ensuring their safety.
Amro Al Hamad, CEO of Lusail International Circuit and executive director of Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation, emphasized, "We are expecting a large number of fans to attend Qatar GP; that said, spectator safety is of paramount importance to us. We have ensured to incorporate the highest levels of safety measures on the track."
Notably, light panels and marshal posts have been upgraded in close collaboration with both the FIA and motorcycle governing body FIM, ensuring that the track meets the stringent safety standards required for both car and motorcycle racing. Rigorous track simulations were conducted prior to construction to guarantee compliance with these safety standards.
Lusail International Circuit's commitment to motorsport extends beyond Formula 1. The circuit's existing agreement with MotoGP extends until 2031, and it is set to broaden its horizons by hosting the World Endurance Championship season opener from next year.
Jochen Braunwarth, director of motorsport solutions at Geobrugg, expressed his pride in their involvement, stating, "We’re incredibly proud to add the Lusail International Circuit to the growing list of Grand Prix venues that are adopting our debris fence solutions. As a venue, Lusail is going from strength to strength, adding a combination of car and bike racing to its portfolio, so it was vital the circuit had the best fencing safety."
As the Qatar Grand Prix returns to the revitalized Lusail International Circuit, fans can expect not only heart-pounding racing action but also a state-of-the-art venue that sets new benchmarks for safety and fan experience. The stage is set for an unforgettable weekend in the world of motorsports.
