Located in the desert city of Sakhir, 31 kilometres south of the capital Manama, the Bahrain International Circuit is much more than a race track: it is an epicentre of adrenaline and excitement for motorsport and Formula 1 enthusiasts in the Middle East. Since its inauguration in 2004, when German driver Michael Schumacher became the first winner, this world-class circuit has witnessed thrilling competitions and attracted visitors from all over the world in search of unique motorsport experiences. Find out about its technological secrets and even drive around the circuit in your own vehicle.
History and construction of the circuit
The circuit was built as part of Bahrain’s vision to diversify its economy and attract tourism through motorsport; since 2004, it has established itself as a leading destination for racing enthusiasts. Championed by Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa and designed by renowned German architect Hermann Tilke, the 150 million dollar circuit stretches across the Bahrain desert and provides a unique experience to drivers and spectators alike. The circuit’s 5.4 kilometre layout features a combination of long straights and fast corners, challenging the drivers with its technical characteristics and providing exciting overtaking opportunities. Its inauguration in 2004 marked a significant milestone as the first Formula 1 circuit in the Arab world.
Visitor experiences
The Bahrain International Circuit is not only a venue for motor racing, but also a must-see tourist attraction. It provides a variety of experiences for visitors, including guided tours of the paddock and pit lane, where you can get an up-close look at the technology behind the Formula 1 teams. In addition, state-of-the-art driving simulators are available for enthusiasts to experience the thrill of driving a single-seater.
Motoring enthusiasts can also enjoy driving days at the circuit, where they have the opportunity to drive their own vehicles on the track under professional supervision. The circuit regularly hosts events and festivals, including concerts and classic car shows, creating a complete experience for visitors of all ages.
F1 Grand Prix
The highlight of the Bahrain International Circuit schedule is the Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix. This exciting night race, illuminated by powerful floodlights, is known for its electric atmosphere and thrilling battles on the track, with the famous tight, downhill, off-camber Turn 10. Fans from all over the world flock to the circuit to witness this world-renowned event, where the best drivers compete in challenging conditions under the starry desert sky. As a curiosity, to prevent the wind from blowing the sand onto the track, the organisers spray the surrounding sand with an adhesive that keeps it in place.
In 2024, Lewis Hamilton remains the most successful driver at the Bahrain circuit with five wins, one more than Vettel. In 2014, the first corner of the circuit was named after Michael Schumacher, who shortly before had suffered a terrible near-fatal skiing accident.
Other competitions
In addition to the F1 Grand Prix, the Bahrain International Circuit hosts a variety of other top-level motor racing events. This includes endurance races such as the 8 Hours of Bahrain, one of the FIA World Endurance Championship events, where teams and drivers compete for hours in an endurance challenge, plus local and international motorsport events, and pre-season testing of vehicles. The circuit’s versatility makes it a popular destination for teams and drivers from around the world looking to challenge their skills on a world-class track.
