Saudi Arabia unveils plans for F1 race in 2023

SaudiArabia has unveiled plans for a purpose-built circuit in a new entertainmentand business development outside of the capital city, Riyadh, according toMotorsport Week.

TheQiddiyah circuit has been designed by ex-Formula 1 driver Alex Wurzand it's hoped it will be completed in time to host an F1 race by 2023.

Althoughthere is no commercial agreement between F1 and those building the circuit,it's known that Saudi Arabia's sports authority and motorsports federation areactively in discussion about joining the calendar.

Ithad previously been rumoured that Saudi could join the calendar as early as2021 with a street circuit in Jeddah, however this is purely speculation withno plans currently in place to do so.

Thetrack will be built to FIA Grade One standard and will therefore be capable ofhosting both F1 and MotoGP.

Duringthe launch event, several current and former drivers were present includingRomain Grosjean, Nico Hulkenberg, Damon Hill, David Coulthard and former MotoGPrider Loris Capirossi.

Thedevelopment is set to include a drag strip, rallycross and rally stages, amotorsport business park as well as sports stadiums, a golf course,accommodation, shopping and hotels.