Qatar to feature in the 2021 F1 calendar in a 10 year deal

Losail International Circuit will be hosting its first ever grand prix this year with a 10 year deal in place starting from 2023, Formula 1 has confirmed.

The track has hosted MotoGP since 2004 and its inclusivity in the Formula 1 calendar means the three final rounds of the 2021 Formula season will be taking place in the Middle East.

The Qatar Grand Prix will be acting as a replacement for the Australian Grand Prix which was cancelled due to travel restrictions imposed by the Australian government due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The round will be happening from 19th to 21st November just between the Brazilian GP and the inaugural Saudi Arabia GP.

“There was a strong will from Qatar to be helpful to F1, and in the course of this process, the vision for a longer partnership was discussed and agreed for 10 years,” a statement from F1 said.

The 10-year agreement was driven by the fact that Qatar will be hosting FIFA World Cup in 2022 and the biggest strategy was to showcase Qatar after the 2022 games.

“As part of the longer-term deal, discussions will continue regarding the location for the Grand Prix from 2023 with further details to be provided at a later time.”

F1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the efforts of the Qatar Motor & Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and the Qatari Authorities in helping to arrange the Grand Prix at short notice, saying: “We are very pleased to welcome Qatar to the Formula 1 calendar this season and for the longer term from 2023.”

It is understood that the race will be classified as a twilight start, similar to the Abu Dhabi GP and with lights out at 18:00 local time.