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Saudi 'up against it' to have F1 venue ready for Dec. 5 race

The Saudi Arabian Grand Prix is "up against it" to complete the Jeddah facility set to host the country's first Formula One race on Dec. 5.

Photos have emerged in the past week showing the facility far from completed in terms of both the circuit and the paddock and pit complex, raising concerns the venue will not be ready in time.

FIA race director Michael Masi is visiting the circuit on Tuesday to inspect and give the track formal sign off to host the race.

F1 is sticking to the line that the race will be ready to host the penultimate round of the championship, although sporting director Steve Nielsen, one of the key figures in bringing new facilities to the calendar, has said there's still a lot that needs doing.