By Ayo Victor
DOHA: Lusail International Circuit (LIC) has recorded the biggest improvement in the Sustainable Circuits Index 2026 (SCI), underlining the Qatar venue’s growing commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible motorsport operations.
LIC was named the Most Improved and Biggest Mover in this year’s index after gaining 17 points and climbing 31 places in the global rankings — the largest single-year improvement among all circuits assessed.
Sustainability has become a key pillar of LIC’s operations. The circuit holds the FIA Three Star Environmental Accreditation, the highest recognition available under the FIA’s environmental accreditation programme. The achievement places LIC among an elite group of motorsport venues maintaining the FIA’s highest environmental rating while hosting three world championship series during a calendar year.
The Sustainable Circuits Index serves as a global benchmark for environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance in motorsport. Under the strategic oversight of the non-profit Sustainable Alliance, Enovation Consulting collects data covering 115 international motorsport venues.
The information is analysed by Professor Paolo Taticchi of the UCL School of Management across 21 environmental, social and governance criteria, providing an assessment of sustainability performance across the global motorsport industry.
LIC’s significant rise in the 2026 rankings reflects a series of initiatives introduced at the circuit, including a rooftop solar array and the extensive use of electric vehicles across its operational fleet.
The venue has also introduced sustainability initiatives aimed directly at spectators, including recycling stations constructed from repurposed wood and an interactive recycling wall at the Formula 1 Fan Zone.
The SCI report also highlighted LIC’s efforts to make motorsport more accessible and inclusive, particularly through calm and sensory-friendly spaces provided for fans during major race weekends.
“This recognition reflects the seriousness with which Lusail International Circuit approaches sustainability,” said Abdulaziz Ali Al Mohannadi, Chief Executive Officer of Lusail International Circuit.
“Being named among the world’s most improved circuits, while also holding the FIA Three-Star Environmental Accreditation, marks an important milestone on a path we intend to keep building on. We remain committed to the goals set out in Qatar National Vision 2030, and to playing our part in advancing sustainability across the motorsport industry.”
LIC is also a signatory to the UNFCCC Sports for Climate Action Framework, further reinforcing its commitment to incorporating environmental responsibility into its events and day-to-day operations.
The circuit continues to expand its ESG initiatives, with programmes focusing on nature protection, biodiversity enhancement, sustainable event operations, carbon reduction, waste management and greater community awareness.
While LIC has yet to reach the highest positions in the Sustainable Circuits Index, its sharp rise in the 2026 edition represents significant progress towards its long-term objectives.
The circuit said it remains committed to advancing sustainable motorsport and intends to make steady progress towards further improving its environmental and ESG performance by 2030.