Qiddiya F1 circuit work continues despite Middle East conflict

Construction of Saudi Arabia's planned Formula 1 circuit at Qiddiya is continuing despite the ongoing Middle East conflict, according to former F1 driver Alex Wurz, whose company is involved in the project. Wurz said some European construction supervisors have been recalled, but work is still underway, and that the first Grand Prix there is likely to take place in 2028. He added that the theme parks at the site are already complete and operational.

Saudi Arabia has been affected by the regional conflict, with an attack on Riyadh's international airport in October and an Aramco facility also targeted. Qiddiya lies around 20 kilometres south of Riyadh. Wurz's comments come as F1 faces a reported Tuesday deadline to decide whether the final two races of 2026, in Qatar and Abu Dhabi, can go ahead.

Wurz's company is also advising the Rwandan government on a proposed African Grand Prix circuit, 40 kilometres south of Kigali. He said groundworks there would begin in early 2027, with completion likely between 2030 and 2032, and that a race would only be scheduled once the surrounding development is finished.