Set against the stunning backdrop of the Red Sea Coastline, the annual night race has become one of Formula 1’s most electrifying events, combining record-breaking speeds with world-class entertainment. The countdown to the sixth successive F1 race in Saudi Arabia follows a spectacular 2025 edition, where McLaren’s Oscar Piastri claimed his first victory in the Kingdom ahead of Red Bull’s Max Verstappen and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc while tens of thousands of fans were treated to headline performances from global superstars Jennifer Lopez and Usher after the racing action had ended. Building on that success, the 2026 event will feature an expanded range of General Admission, Grandstand and Premium Hospitality experiences, catering to fans across all preferences. General Admission tickets offer an accessible way to experience three days of racing, with standing views of the on-track action complemented by a packed Fan Zone programme and large screens ensuring fans stay connected to the race at all times. Grandstand tickets in the Main and Central Grandstands provide reserved seating and outstanding sightlines across some of the circuit’s most dramatic sections, including the start/finish straight and the hyper-fast final sector at Turns 26 and 27, where speeds have exceeded 322 km/h.

At the premium end, hospitality offerings combine contemporary luxury with authentic Saudi Arabian hospitality. Guests can choose from the Premium Lounge, a vibrant social environment featuring fine dining, curated entertainment and rooftop track views, or Premium Suites, which offer private balconies, tailored catering and dedicated service for executive and corporate hosting. Premium Elite represents the highest tier of corporate hospitality, delivering a purpose-built private wing designed for senior leadership engagement and high-level client hosting. The hospitality portfolio is completed by the official Paddock Club - Formula 1’s most iconic hospitality offering - positioned above the pit lane and offering international fine dining alongside exclusive behind-the-scenes access, including Pit Lane Walks and guided track tours. Racing Toward a Brighter Future With five thrilling races to its name, the FORMULA 1 STC SAUDI ARABIAN GRAND PRIX has established itself as one of the most thrilling F1 Grands Prix on the calendar. The Jeddah Corniche Circuit remains the longest and fastest street circuit in the sport, with drivers averaging 252 km/h and spending 79 per cent of each lap at full throttle. Since 2021, nearly three-quarters of a million visitors have passed through the gates of Saudi Arabia’s largest annual sporting and entertainment event. Fans have travelled from across the Kingdom and more than 130 countries, cementing the FORMULA 1 STC SAUDI ARABIAN GRAND PRIX as a truly global spectacle.

However, it is not only on-track that it has made a significant impact. Indeed, beyond the track, the FORMULA 1 STC SAUDI ARABIAN GRAND PRIX continues to inspire and empower future generations. Ahead of the most recent F1 race in April 2025, SMC partnered with 61 schools and universities nationwide to highlight the professional and personal opportunities created by the arrival of world-class motorsport in the Kingdom. As a result, more than 17,000 students were directly engaged through motorsport-focused education programmes across Saudi Arabia, showcasing emerging career pathways for young men and women. These initiatives included roadshows, karting events, career days, volunteer schemes, and talent development programmes. A further 253,000 students were reached online through a dedicated online educational campaign, led and curated by SMC. In total, since 2021, SMC has reached over 1 million students, disadvantaged youth, and volunteers—leveraging the power of motorsport to open doors, inspire ambition, and shape a brighter future for Saudi Arabia’s next generation. 2026: New Cars, New Teams, New Champion The 2026 season promises to be a landmark year for Formula 1, with the introduction of all-new cars designed to deliver closer, more unpredictable racing. The grid will also expand with Cadillac joining as an 11th team, while Audi makes its long-awaited debut. Jeddah will welcome a new reigning World Champion for the first time since 2021, as McLaren’s Lando Norris arrives to defend his title against four-time champion Max Verstappen and teammate Oscar Piastri. F1 Academy will also return, continuing to showcase the next generation of female racing talent. Off track, fans can once again expect a world-class live music programme. Following performances in recent years from global artists including Justin Bieber, Travis Scott, Alicia Keys, Jennifer Lopez and Usher, the 2026 Grand Prix will deliver another international entertainment lineup, further cementing Jeddah’s status as a leading destination for sport and entertainment.