The Saudi Automobile & Motorcycle Federation (SAMF), promoter of the Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix 2021, announced that Saudi Telecom Company (stc) will be the title partner of the first ever Formula 1 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, which will take place on the brand-new Jeddah Corniche Circuit on the weekend of Dec. 3–5. The formal agreement was signed this morning by Prince Khalid Bin Sultan Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, chairman of the Saudi Automobile and Motorcycle Federation, Prince Mohammad Bin Khalid Al-Abdullah Al-Faisal, chairman of stc Board of Directors, and stc Group CEO Eng. Olayan M. Alwetaid. In addition to its inclusion on the event title, the terms of the agreement will see the stc logo be heavily displayed throughout the race weekend. The stc brand is set to feature prominently on all global broadcasts as well as on the winners' trophies and across the Jeddah Corniche Circuit — the newest, longest and fastest street circuit in the world — during the penultimate round of the 2021 FIA Formula One World Championship. In turn, stc will support a variety of inspiring initiatives and events hosted across the Kingdom, as part of Vision 2030's aim to inspire the nation to engage in increased sporting activities and to promote a healthier lifestyle for all. Speaking after the partnership was signed earlier today, Prince Khalid commented: "We are delighted to announce our partnership with the Saudi Telecom Company, a collaboration that will have a hugely significant and positive impact for both parties. "Formula 1 has a global fan base of more than 500 million fans with a cumulative television audience of 1.9 billion viewers, which represents an incredible opportunity for both parties to showcase the best of Saudi innovation and technology to the world. "Indeed, the values of stc are perfectly aligned with those of the Formula 1 stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix — progressive, pioneering and dedicated to making the future a better place for the people of Saudi Arabia, in line with the Kingdom's Vison 2030 goals. "Today we look forward with greater excitement than ever to the arrival of Formula 1 on the streets of Jeddah in just a few months' time, when we can guarantee three days of world class racing and live entertainment all for the price of one ticket. We can't wait to welcome the world in December." Prince Mohammad also welcomed the partnership: "An event of this stature in Jeddah affirms the great possibilities we can achieve as a Kingdom and represents great confidence of global organizations in our capability to stage world class events. "The participation of stc in the event is a testimony that as a digital enabler in the Kingdom, we have a significant role to play in contributing to the success of global events and enhancing the Kingdom's image in the global markets. It is my sincere wish that everyone who attends the inaugural F1 race weekend in Saudi Arabia has a wonderful experience" For his part, Eng. Alwateed said: "Formula 1 is of great interest to all segments of Saudi society, and is followed by millions from around the world. This is why we were keen to participate in this global event, which is important to Saudi Arabia, and which will be supported by stc by providing the latest ICT solutions to enable everyone to enjoy an advanced digital and technological experience. "This is a continuation of our strategy which aims to support inspiring initiatives and events hosted by the Kingdom in all fields." Ben Pincus, director of Commercial Partnerships at Formula 1, said: "With just over two months to go until the first ever Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, excitement in the region is really starting to build and we cannot wait to race in Jeddah for the first time. "We're very happy to welcome stc to be a part of this historic event, and as one of the leading brands in the region, it is a natural fit to help enhance the experience for F1 fans in Saudi Arabia." The Formula 1 stc Saudi Arabian Grand Prix will mark its arrival in style with the newest circuit in the sport estimated to see drivers reach average speeds of 250km/h, making it the fastest street circuit in the world — and in the top five fastest F1 circuits altogether! Indeed, superstars of F1 are projected to reach top speeds of up to 322km/h as they race towards Turn 27. Featuring no less than 27 corners, the Jeddah Corniche Circuit stretches to 6.175km in length, making it the second longest circuit on the current F1 calendar behind the legendary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps and the longest street circuit in the sport. Additionally, three consecutive sections of the circuit have been marked out as potential DRS Zones, ensuring plenty of overtaking opportunities for the drivers throughout the race. The fact the race will take place at night under the lights will only add to the amazing atmosphere F1 fans can expect to experience in December. — SG
