Qatar GP Reflects Nation’s Ambition, Says Ben Sulayem
<p>FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem has praised the Qatar Grand Prix as a powerful symbol of the nation’s growing ambition, influence, and long-term commitment to global motorsport. As Formula 1 heads into its penultimate round of the season this weekend, the Lusail International Circuit is once again at the centre of global attention—not just as a racing venue, but as a strategic pillar for the sport’s future in the Middle East.</p><p>Since joining the Formula 1 calendar in 2021, the Qatar Grand Prix has quickly become a key fixture, standing out for its modern facilities, high-speed layout, and dedication to developing motorsport from grassroots levels to the elite stages. Ben Sulayem emphasised that Qatar’s investment in the sport is reshaping opportunities for young drivers and aspiring racing professionals across the region.</p><h3><strong>Qatar’s Growing Motorsport Ecosystem</strong></h3><p>Speaking ahead of the race, Ben Sulayem hailed Lusail’s role in building a sustainable motorsport ecosystem. Qatar has been investing heavily in nurturing local talent, expanding FIA-endorsed karting programmes, and supporting the Formula 4 Middle East Championship—an important development series for drivers moving up the ranks.</p><p>He noted that Qatar’s motorsport structure now provides “a clear and affordable pathway” for young drivers and officials looking to reach the top tiers of racing. These programmes help cultivate grassroots participation, with expanded training for race officials and volunteers further strengthening the sporting infrastructure.</p><h3><strong>A Grand Prix That Represents a National Vision</strong></h3><p>Describing the Qatar GP as a manifestation of the country’s broader ambitions, Ben Sulayem said:</p><blockquote><p>“The Qatar Grand Prix is more than a race; it represents the nation’s vision not only to host world-class events, but to build motorsport from the grassroots all the way to the global stage.”</p></blockquote><p>He highlighted that the Lusail International Circuit stands as both a premier Formula 1 venue and a model of Qatar’s commitment to integrating technology, sustainability, and long-term development into the sport.</p><p>The FIA President added that the Middle East continues to take on a more prominent role in the global racing landscape. With expanding fan communities, modern infrastructure, and significant investment, the region has become an essential part of the Formula 1 calendar.</p><h3><strong>A Circuit Built for Action-Packed Racing</strong></h3><p>Lusail’s 16-corner layout is known for its flow, competitive racing potential, and generous overtaking opportunities. Its night-race atmosphere—illuminated by advanced floodlighting—makes it one of the most visually striking Grands Prix on the calendar.</p><p>In recent years, the circuit underwent extensive upgrades to deliver a world-class experience for teams, drivers, officials, and spectators. These enhancements include:</p><p>A 402-metre pit lane with <strong>50 modern garages</strong></p><p>Upgraded race control, medical, and media centres</p><p>New lighting systems designed for performance and energy efficiency</p><p>2.5 kilometres of FIA-approved debris fencing</p><p>Expanded hospitality and fan engagement zones</p><p>These improvements underline Qatar’s determination to meet the FIA’s highest safety, technical, and operational standards, while also elevating the spectacle for global audiences.</p><h3><strong>Supporting Diversity and Access in Motorsport</strong></h3><p>The FIA remains committed to increasing accessibility, diversity, and inclusion within motorsport worldwide. In the Middle East, a major component of this mission is the <strong>MENA Karting Championship Nations Cup</strong>, founded by Ben Sulayem in 2020.</p><p>This year’s edition, held last month at Lusail and organized by the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF), saw tremendous participation—drawing more than <strong>170 drivers from 18 countries</strong>. The event reflected the region’s rising enthusiasm for motorsport and Qatar’s role in nurturing emerging talent.</p><h3><strong>Ben Sulayem's Personal Ties to Qatar</strong></h3><p>Beyond his administrative role, Ben Sulayem holds a deep personal connection with Qatar. Over his decorated rallying career, he won the Qatar round of the FIA Middle East Rally Championship <strong>nine times</strong> between 1988 and 2002. His longstanding ties to the nation reinforce his belief in Qatar’s value to the global motorsport community.</p><p>Ahead of last year's Qatar Grand Prix, he also held high-level discussions with Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman Bin Jassim Al Thani, and Minister of Sports and Youth, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Bin Ahmed Al Thani. Their discussions centred on expanding Qatar’s motorsport capabilities and its role in shaping the sport’s global future.</p><h3><strong>Looking Ahead</strong></h3><p>As the 2025 season approaches its climax, the Qatar Grand Prix stands as a testament to the region’s growing importance in Formula 1. With world-class infrastructure, a commitment to talent development, and increasing global influence, Qatar continues to establish itself as a central player in the evolution of motorsport.</p>