Multiple modifications to the Qatar circuit for the arrival of F1

The Qatar Grand Prix will be on the Formula 1 calendar for the first time in 2021. The Grand Prix fills the gap left by the cancellation of the Australian Grand Prix. The country has a circuit that can be used, but it needs some changes. Michael Masi told Motorsport.com what needs to be changed when F1 arrives in Qatar in November.

Qatar GP

"They're changing the pitlane entry completely," said the race director. "So what was the pitlane entry for bikes will change, dramatically. That work is nearly completed.

"It's a very different ilk in the MotoGP or FIM world. So it's been trying to adapt in a relatively short period, which is the other part that we need to consider, that we're not talking about a huge period of time.

"I'll head there again next weekend, prior to Austin, to have a look, but nearly all the works have been completed."

"Obviously the big parts have been safety requirements for bikes when it comes to Tecpro barriers and things like that," Masi added.

"There's a number of double kerbs that have been installed. Obviously, the circuit is ostensibly a bike circuit. So apex sausages, so people don't cut corners on the inside, double kerbs on exits, are the big one from a circuit perspective.

"As well there's a significant number of barrier upgrades, with regards to Tecpro and tyres around the entire venue. But the pitlane entry's probably the biggest actual track change, let's call it."

On the other hand, the pit garage was deemed to be good enough, and big enough, for F1.

"There's more than enough [space]. I think it's about 40 garages as a base number. And when we were there, they'd already finished an extra 10, if I recall correctly. So there's 50 pit lane garages in total. There's more than enough space.

"Garages, paddock space, all things like that were all fine from the circuit end. I think it'll be a good little venue for this year."