F1 heads to new and improved Lusail circuit in Qatar

©Lusail

Qatar's Lusail International Circuit has undergone a significant transformation ahead of this week's F1 event.

The 5.1km, 16 corner track has been given a new look and feel, with state-of-the-art facilities and safety upgrades that make it one of the most advanced tracks on the F1 calendar.

Qatar first hosted a Formula 1 race in 2021 as a replacement for the cancelled Australian Grand Prix due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following the event's success, the peninsular Arab country signed a ten-year contract with F1 that kicks off this week.

Read also: Verstappen 'feeling no emotion' ahead of Qatar title chance

One of the venue's most noticeable changes is its increase in grandstand capacity to 40,000 that will allow more fans to experience the thrill of F1 racing up close.

Parking infrastructure and circuit accessibility have also been improved, making it easier for fans to get to and from the event.

The paddock facilities have also been overhauled, with the introduction of an ultramodern media centre and improvements to the medical centre and garages.

The circuit now homes 50 pit boxes, the highest amount of any track on the F1 calendar.

In addition to the physical upgrades, Lusail has also made a number of changes to improve the fan experience.

The venue now offers a larger public fan zone and several new VIP areas, including F1's Paddock Club. There is also a new elevated green viewing area at Turn 1, known as 'Lusail hill', which is accessible to all general admission ticket holders.

Safety has also been a top priority for Lusail. The circuit has installed 2.5km of new debris fencing and made upgrades to the digital flag panels and marshal posts surrounding the circuit.

Advanced light systems are now in place to ensure maximum visibility during night racing.

©Lusail

"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," said Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, President of Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit.

"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."

Beyond its commitment to Formula 1 and to MotoGP, Lusail will also host next year the opening round of the World Endurance Championship’s season.

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.