Codemasters hint that new track could be the fastest on the calendar

Racing fans now have the chance to drive on the newly added Jeddah Corniche circuit before the actual F1 drivers as part of a free content pack added to F1 2021. The Saudi Arabian GP track was included as the final part of the free circuit update which also saw Imola and Portimao added previously. The announcement from long-term F1 series developers Codemasters (and EA) was introduced earlier this week and means that gamers can learn every inch of the racetrack before the professionals when they take part in the penultimate race of this year on 5th December.

The circuit is touted to be the longest and fastest street race in the calendar with top speeds expected to exceed 250 km/h. Codemasters expect the track to be excellent for overtaking which could be crucial for the game but also for the actual championship which is proving to be one of the most competitive in F1 recent history.

“Our players love new circuits, and Jeddah is extra special as it makes its debut in-game before the drivers head to Saudi in December,” said Paul Jeal, F1® Senior Franchise Director at Codemasters. “Jeddah has the potential to be one of the most competitive circuits on the calendar with long, fast straights and multiple overtaking sections. The studio has done an incredible job re-creating the circuit ahead of its maiden race.”

Codemasters have helmed the F1 game franchise since 2009

F1 2021 also sees some of the drivers getting to show off their creativity as Codemasters announced this week that paddock favourites, McLaren’s Daniel Ricciardo and Williams’ George Russell, also designed new in-game items such as exclusive car liveries, race suits and helmet designs for the My Team and online modes.

“We thoroughly enjoyed working with Daniel and watching his creativity come to life,” said Paul Jeal, “Our players will also be able to unlock items designed by George Russell from today, and I’m sure there will be a race to show them off online.”

Codemasters have helmed the F1 series since 2009 and the popularity of the franchise has grown immeasurably over the last few years, coinciding with the recent surge in interest from the Netflix series Drive to Survive becoming an international success.

Eager race fans can purchase F1 2021 as part of the Black Friday promotions which started yesterday to November 29th (Playstation 4/5), 30th (PC via Steam) and 2nd December for Xbox consoles. And given how pivotal each point is becoming this season, the actual F1 drivers might want to purchase it to get some practice on the Jeddah circuit.