JEDDAH: Drivers took part in the practice sessions for the opening round of the 2026 Saudi Toyota Championship Time Attack at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit on Friday, ahead of race day on Saturday.
Administrative and technical checks were carried out on Thursday to ensure the participating cars met required technical and safety standards. Of the 107 male and female competitors who registered, 74 passed the inspections to qualify for the competition across 11 categories, as well as the Ladies Cup.
Friday began with a mandatory drivers’ briefing by race officials and stewards, during which competition regulations, procedures and safety requirements were reviewed.
Free practice followed, with one session for each category. The runs gave drivers a chance to further familiarize themselves with the circuit, assess the performance of their vehicles, and refine their planned braking points and racing lines.
The first competitive run on Saturday is scheduled for 4 p.m., followed by a second at 7:45 p.m. The competitors will be aiming to record the fastest time around the circuit, with the final positions in each category determined by the time across the two runs. The action will conclude at midnight with a podium ceremony and awards presentations for the winners in all categories.
The Saudi Toyota Championship Time Attack is an individual competition in which drivers navigate a designated course on the circuit against the clock. Unlike conventional circuit racing, competitors do not start together or compete directly through overtaking. Instead, their relative positions are determined by recorded lap times while following the prescribed route and complying with safety regulations.
The event consists of three rounds, all of which are at the Jeddah Corniche Circuit. The second round takes place Sept. 3-5, and the final round Oct. 15-17.
