The F1 calendar 2021 is heading to the deserts of Jeddah for the very first time this week as the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix screeches into view.

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The title race could barely be closer with just eight points separating the leader Max Verstappen and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.

Both drivers have fought hard all season long. This is the most sustained threat to Hamilton's dominance since his hot streak with Mercedes began and Verstappen can land a killer blow as soon as this weekend.

Red Bull star Verstappen will be crowned champion if he wins the race plus records the fastest lap and Hamilton finishes lower than fifth.

However, Mercedes' star man has been in superb form and final tweaks on the car appear to be paying major dividends in the home straight. He is the favourite for both remaining races in Saudi Arabia and Abu Dhabi.

RadioTimes.com brings you all the details about when the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix gets underway.

When is the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix?

The Qatar Grand Prix takes place on Sunday 5th December 2021.

The race starts at 5:30pm, so it's later than usual, to accommodate for the heat of the day in the desert of Jeddah.

It will last around 90 minutes on average and can be no longer than two hours.

Saudi Arabian Grand Prix schedule

Friday 3rd December

From 1pm on Sky Sports F1

Practice 1 – 1:30pm

Practice 2 – 5pm

Saturday 4th December

From 1:45pm on Sky Sports F1

Practice 3 – 2pm

Qualifying – 5pm

Sunday 5th December

From 4pm on Sky Sports F1

Race – 5:30pm

Check in during race week for our full race preview featuring full TV and live stream details, predictions and exclusive analysis with Sky F1 commentator Crofty.

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If you’re looking for something else to watch, check out our TV Guide or visit our Sport hub.

Authors

Michael PottsSport Editor

Michael Potts is the Sport Editor for Radio Times, covering all of the biggest sporting events across the globe with previews, features, interviews and more. He has worked for Radio Times since 2019 and previously worked on the sport desk at Express.co.uk after starting his career writing features for What Culture. He achieved a first-class degree in Sports Journalism in 2014.

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