Jeddah features the most corners of any circuit on the 2024 calendar, many of which are blisteringly fast. The three DRS zones are drivers’ best chance to overtake, but this can a particularly challenging track where any mistake can spiral rapidly. With a safety car almost certain to appear, whose strategy will be flexible enough to conquer the fastest street circuit in F1 history?
Mid race, Hamilton’s car doesn’t have enough downforce to get within DRS range of Norris on this corner-heavy circuit. But both drivers are on their first set of medium tyres, and a well-timed pit stop to undercut Norris could get him ahead and open up options for the rest of the race. Manage Mercedes and pass this hurdle, then secure as many points as possible for the Silver Arrows!
Suggested car setup and attribute focus for the Jeddah Street Circuit
- Medium speed cornering is crucial
- Focusing on top speed and DRS effectiveness are also recommended
- Favours cars with balanced stats
With a very high chance to see a safety car at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix and a low likelihood of bad weather, this GP is unlikely to pack any surprises, but don’t be complacent and be ready to take advantage of any opportunities.
- As with the previous GP, most strategies will call for a single pit stop, so your pit strategy should be driven by your place in the starting grid and whether you want to open or close the race on hards.
- If you’re unlikely to significantly improve on your qualifying performance and earn points, Jeddah is too early in the season to push your cars hard for a small point return. Focus on consistency and reserve your performance for future GPs.
- Jeddah has lots of opportunities to overtake and battle for position, so if you’re in a position where points are likely there can be value in pushing a little harder to earn more.