Qatar Grand Prix dazzles capacity crowd at Lusail International Circuit

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 from October 6-8. The vibrant festival of speed and entertainment drew to a close on Sunday October 8 in an atmosphere charged with limitless vigour and passion.A number of dignitaries, VIPs and celebrities witnessed the race-day action among roaring crowds at the newly-renovated circuit. His Highness the Amir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani graced the occasion in addition to HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, HE the President of the Qatar Olympic Committee Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad al-Thani, HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, and HE the Minister of Sports and Youth Salah bin Ghanem al-Ali.Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive HE Akbar al-Baker, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, FIA President Mohamed Ben Sulayem, President and CEO of Formula 1 Stefano Domenicali, and the President of Lusail International Circuit Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif al-Mannai were also among notable high-profile guests at the event.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 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.President of the Qatar Motor and Motorcycle Federation and Lusail International Circuit Abdulrahman bin Abdullatif al-Mannai expressed his delight at the incredible success of the Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023. He emphasised that the global attention received by the state-of-the-art Lusail International Circuit 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 motor sports enthusiasts across Qatar.”"Hosting F1 confirms Qatar’s position as a key hub in the motor sports arena as well as its status as a leading destination for mega sporting events. This ambition resonates with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the Amir of Qatar. His esteemed presence at the track during the race was an honour that deeply touched us.”Al-Mannai added, "We are especially proud of the turnout of spectators and the electrifying atmosphere that we’ve all experienced at the circuit over the race weekend. It is heartening to see fans from across the world indulge in the range of cultural activities that have been available and immerse themselves in our rich Qatari heritage, in addition to enjoying the thrilling on-track action.”A huge firework display enhanced the celebratory atmosphere at Lusail International Circuit as the winners of the Formula One Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 took the podium. HE Sheikh Joaan presented the Qatar Grand Prix trophy to Max Verstappen.Lusail International Circuit hosted the Formula One Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2023 as the first instalment under a ten-year contract with Formula 1. Fans can now look forward to the MotoGP Qatar Airways Grand Prix of Qatar 2023, that will take place at the circuit from November 17-19.