Formula E Eyes Jeddah Circuit Expansion for Gen4 Era
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is poised to see modifications to its Formula E circuit as the all-electric racing series prepares for the introduction of its faster and more powerful Gen4 cars in the 2026/27 season. Discussions are underway with Saudi Arabian authorities to potentially adopt an extended configuration of the Jeddah Corniche Circuit, moving beyond the shorter 3km layout used since Formula E’s arrival in the city in 2025.
Shift from Diriyah and Current Jeddah Layout
The move to Jeddah in 2025 followed the unavailability of the previous site in Diriyah due to ongoing construction work . The current Jeddah track utilizes the first three turns of the Formula 1 circuit before diverting into a hairpin and incorporating four chicanes designed to increase braking zones and energy regeneration opportunities.
Gen4 Cars Demand More Track Space
With the Gen4 cars projected to produce up to 800bhp and potentially achieve speeds comparable to Formula 1 machinery, Formula E is seeking circuits that can showcase the fresh car’s capabilities. Jeff Dodds, series’ CEO, emphasized the need for a longer circuit configuration to allow the Gen4 cars to “flex its muscles” and reach speeds exceeding 200mph .
Exploring Hybrid and Full Circuit Options
While utilizing the full 6.17km Formula 1 track isn’t currently considered feasible, Formula E is exploring a “hybrid” configuration that incorporates more of the fast-flowing F1 circuit. Alberto Longo, Formula E chief championship officer, stated that simulations are being conducted to evaluate various options, aiming for a layout that falls between the current track and the full F1 circuit .
Addressing Driver Concerns: Chicanes and Regeneration
A consistent point of discussion among drivers has been the number of artificial chicanes on the current layout. While necessary for energy regeneration in the Gen3 Evo era, they disrupt the track’s flow. Dodds explained the need to balance regeneration with allowing the Gen4 cars to demonstrate their speed, suggesting the potential introduction of two Pit Boosts and the removal of some chicanes to achieve this .
Driver Perspectives on Circuit Modifications
Several drivers have expressed support for incorporating more of Jeddah’s fast first sector and reducing the number of chicanes. Nyck de Vries, who has raced the full Jeddah layout in a grand prix car, suggested removing some of the chicanes on the straights and incorporating more of sector one . Oliver Rowland of Nissan also favored exploring the first sector, while Jake Dennis of Andretti proposed retaining the current layout with minor revisions, potentially removing one chicane in sector three . Dan Ticktum of Cupra Kiro expressed a preference for utilizing the full F1 version of the track, citing it as one of his favorite circuits .
Jeddah E-Prix Details
The 2026 Jeddah E-Prix is scheduled as a double-header on February 13th and 14th, continuing to be a night race . The event will feature entertainment, gaming arenas, live music and a variety of food and beverage options alongside the racing action .