It was the scene of one of its most difficult political struggles in decades – but there is unlikely to be a repeat this time around. But that has not stopped organisers from upping security for this weekend’s race. The embarrassment of last year’s attack is likely to see the full focus of the county’s “iron shield” protection system drawn to Jeddah. Whether you like it or not, the Saudis are serious about their involvement in F1 and the race will be remaining on the calendar for some time. But I have been told that he is likely to be at the Saudi GP this Sunday. Ronaldo, who plays for Saudi side Al Nassr, is likely to be requested to attend with one paddock source saying it is within his £170million-a-year contract to attend.

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