The Lusail International Circuit is prepared to host the Qatar Grand Prix, says Ashghal

Lusail Circuit Ready for Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix

Doha, Qatar: As the countdown begins for the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix scheduled from October 6 to 8, 2023, at the Lusail International Circuit, the Public Works Authority 'Ashghal' proudly announces the successful completion of the circuit's racetrack development and construction of key infrastructure, grandstands, and main buildings. The Lusail Circuit, boasting a 5.38-kilometer racetrack with 16 turns, is now fully prepared to welcome participants and fans for one of Doha's most eagerly anticipated sporting events.

Eng. Youssef Al Emadi, Projects Affairs Director at Ashghal, expressed pride in Ashghal's contribution to hosting this prestigious global sporting event, further enhancing Qatar's reputation as a host for major international events. Al Emadi noted that the racetrack and main building development were accomplished in just seven months, adhering to the highest international standards and Formula 1 requirements. The project also included modern infrastructure, new service facilities, and road enhancements to ensure an exceptional experience for local and global fans.

Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation and President of Lusail International Circuit, emphasized that the comprehensive renovation positions Lusail International Circuit as a premier venue for both local and international competitions, being the only circuit in the region to host both Formula 1 and MotoGP races. The project maintained the track's original design, with added facilities and infrastructure upgrades to optimize event organization and enhance the spectator experience.

Eng. Saoud Al Tamimi, Manager of the Roads Projects Department at Ashghal, highlighted the project's expansion of intersections and surrounding roads, totaling 21 kilometers in length, to improve access to the circuit and connect it to major roads in the area. Roads adjacent to the circuit, as well as those leading to the Umm Ebairiya/Al Sakhama intersection, have already been completed, with plans to finalize the main roads linked to Al Majd Road by the end of the month.

Eng. Jarallah Al Marri, Manager of the Buildings Projects Department at Ashghal, emphasized the construction of new buildings and the development of accompanying facilities over an estimated 100,000 square meters. These additions include a larger fan zone, 5-star VIP areas, and increased grandstand and parking capacity, all designed with distinctive modern aesthetics and cutting-edge technology.

Eng. Hamad Al Bader, Acting Assistant Manager of the Buildings Projects Department and the Project Manager, praised the project's completion and highlighted the collaboration among government entities to achieve record-time delivery while maintaining the highest quality standards. The project's scale, compliance with Formula 1 requirements, and innovative solutions presented substantial challenges, but the dedicated team successfully overcame them.

The Lusail International Circuit's 5.38 km racetrack underwent extensive repaving, marking, sidewalk installation, barrier placement, lighting system installation, and landscaping enhancements. The project also featured 85 electronic screens, totaling 6,848 square meters, along with the construction of three tunnels to improve circuit access. Formula 1, the International Automobile Federation (FIA), and the International Motorcycle Federation (FIM) have initially approved the track, with final approval scheduled for early October.

Eng. Fatma Al-Abdulmalek, Project Engineer in the Buildings Projects Department at Ashghal, revealed the provision of approximately 15,000 indoor and outdoor parking spaces, including VIP parking, and the circuit's increased capacity to accommodate 40,000 spectators across various grandstands and viewing areas. Extensive green spaces spanning 180,000 square meters were also established.

The ongoing works at the Lusail International Circuit's Academy (Qatar Motor Sports Academy) and service road construction, aimed at supporting urban growth in the area, are expected to be completed in November 2023 and the second quarter of 2024, respectively.

Eng. Ahmed Abu Nahia, the Project Manager, lauded the project team's exceptional efforts in overcoming complex challenges, including the installation of intricate steel structures. He highlighted the canopy construction for the VVIP building and Al Majlis building, weighing 330 and 68 tons, respectively, and requiring specialized equipment for safe installation. The project also included several steel canopies to enhance the circuit's aesthetics, posing logistical challenges that the team successfully surmounted.

The completion of this monumental project showcases Qatar's readiness to host prestigious sporting events, following the successful Qatar Grand Prix in March 2021 and the MotoGP World Championship in April of the same year.