The final countdown for the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 is well and truly on, and the excitement is mounting since the Lusail International Circuit (LIC) has revealed the first look of the extensively remodelled venue. The iconic circuit, which underwent major renovation for months, is ready and will become the centre of attraction at the weekend as F1 stars return to the country after a one-year break.
Already among the favourite circuits for riders and drivers, the stunning LIC is set to enhance the experience of all the stakeholders with F1 drivers and racegoers first to enjoy the state-of-the-art facilities. Led by Ashghal, a suite of new, state-of-the-art facilities including expanded seating capacity, five-star VIP zones and new viewing areas have been built.
The world class LIC has become a place to visit particularly after the renovation as host of new buildings have been constructed as part of the project including an ultramodern media centre, a new medical centre, a paddock area, a pit building, and various new VVIP buildings and hospitality areas. The venue can now accommodate 40,000 people and parking capacity has been expanded to 15,000, making it more accessible for motorsports fans. To ensure the fans remain abreast of action during the event, a total of 85 spectacular screens including a giant screen on the underside of the paddock area have also been installed.
The Qatar Grand Prix action will begin on Friday (October 6) with a free practice session followed by a qualifying round while the popular sprint shootout sessions will take place the following day. The highly-anticipated race under the floodlights on Sunday will culminate the action. The entertainment programme lined up by the LIC will add colours to the experience as exclusive performances from Amr Diab (Friday), Alesso (Saturday) and Bruno Mars (Sunday) have been confirmed.
The possibility that Red Bull’s Max Verstappen can seal the driver’s title at LIC has made Qatar Grand Prix a must-watch race for F1 fans. All eyes will be on the Dutchman, who can secure the triumph in sprint after he won the Japanese Grand Prix – his 13th victory of the year.
The top-notch action at the venue will not stop after the F1 race as it will also be home to the 2023 MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar to be held from November 17 to 19. The venue will remain the hub of motorsports owing to long-term contracts with F1 and MotoGP. The LIC will also make FIA World Endurance Championship debut next year and is set to host the popular race until 2029.
