Qatar has shown to the world time and again that it is capable of hosting top sporting events with state-of-the-art facilities for athletes, officials and fans. This was amply proven despite many barbs from vested interests when Qatar proudly hosted the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 last year. It was billed by the millions from around the world who attended as the best World Cup ever with its excellent organization from stadiums, training grounds, hospitality, and transportation to the various entertainment options around the country during the tournament.
Qatar will be home to another big sporting spectacle in October when some of the fastest cars to race on tracks rolls into the country for the Qatar Formula 1 Grand Prix. This year’s event will be more special as the Lusail International Circuit, which was opened in 2004, has gone through comprehensive renovation and development works to host one of the biggest and premier motor racing events in the world.
Lusail International Circuit is the only one in the region to have both FIA and FIM homologation licenses and hosted the first night race in MotoGP history in 2008. It has successfully hosted many Moto GP races and a Formula One race – Qatar Grand Prix 2021.
The circuit is getting a complete makeover with the development of the racetrack, construction of buildings and associated facilities, in addition to upgrading the roads and infrastructure surrounding the circuit. The modernisation includes cutting-edge technology upgrades, the development of race controls, media and medical centres, new pre-race buildings and expanded fan areas. Motorsport fans will be in for a treat this year as the high-octane track action will be complemented by the inaugural Geneva International Motor Show, an automotive festival, which is expected to showcase the biggest names in the world.
The renovation works are fast progressing and the new-looking 5.418km Lusail International Circuit, one of the most prominent circuits in the world, will be ready to welcome thousands of fans and host some of the biggest motorsport events like the World Endurance Championship race for the first time.
The endurance race, Qatar 1812, will be staged in March 2024 and will cover around 1,812km, lasting under 10 hours, and is named after Qatar National Day celebrated every year on December 18.
After football fans from around the world, now it is the turn of motorsport fans to discover the different, sporting, cultural and entertainment options Qatar has to offer.
