As many as 120,000 fans enjoyed exquisite Qatari hospitality at the state-of-the-art Lusail International Circuit that hosted the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 over the weekend, from 6 to 8 October. The vibrant festival of speed and entertainment drew to a close this Sunday in an atmosphere charged with limitless vigour and passion.
A number of dignitaries, VIP guests and celebrities witnessed the race-day action among a roaring crowd at the newly renovated circuit. The Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani was there, together with other officials from Qatar, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani, Qatar Olympic Committee President HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, and Minister of Sports and Youth HE Salah bin Ghanim Al Ali.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive HE Akbar Al Baker, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President and CEO of Formula 1 Stefano Domenicali, and Lusail International Circuit President Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai were also among the high-profile guests present during the thrilling race day.
Verstappen victory
In a remarkable display of skill, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen clinched victory at the Qatar Grand Prix. This win locks in a successful weekend for Verstappen as he claims his third FIA Formula 1 World Drivers’ Championship title. Following behind in a commendable performance was Australia’s Oscar Piastri, driving for McLaren. Rounding off the podium in third was Piastri’s teammate Lando Norris.
The action trackside was preceded by an elaborate opening ceremony featuring the participation of several local entities. Lusail International Circuit partnered with Education Above All to deliver the Grid Kids programme which saw children usher drivers to the grid prior to the start of the race.
Other key highlights of the ceremony included a stunning rendition of the Qatari national anthem by the Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra and a light show that wowed audiences ahead of the racing spectacle.
Lusail International Circuit
According to the President of Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation (QMMF) and Lusail International Circuit, Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif Al Mannai, the incredible success of the Qatar Grand Prix was due in part to the significant upgrades that have been made to the venue.
This year’s Qatar Grand Prix was especially monumental, as the 2023 Formula 1 World Championship title was decided. This landmark event strengthens the circuit’s legacy and provides inspiration for motorsports enthusiasts across Qatar.
He said that hosting F1 confirms Qatar’s position as a key hub in the motorsports arena as well as a leading destination for mega sporting events
Al Mannai said they are especially proud of the turnout of spectators and the electrifying atmosphere that everyone experienced at the circuit over the race weekend.
A huge firework display enhanced the celebratory atmosphere at Lusail International Circuit as winners took the podium. HE Sheikh Joaan presented the Qatar Grand Prix trophy to Max Verstappen.
Lusail International Circuit hosted the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 as the first instalment of a ten-year contract with Formula 1. Fans can now look forward to the MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar 2023, taking place at the circuit from 17 to 19 November.
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