Bahrain International Circuit (The Ultimate guide)

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The Bahrain International Circuit is a world-class motorsports facility located in Sakhir, Bahrain. It is home to the Bahrain Grand Prix, which is part of the Formula One World Championship. 

The circuit has become one of the most popular tracks on the F1 calendar, known for its state-of-the-art facilities and exciting racing.

Table of Contents

Watch this video to learn more about Bahrain International Circuit.

History and Construction of the Circuit

Motorsports have been a part of Bahrain’s culture for many years, with various races and events taking place in the country. 

The Bahrain International Circuit was first proposed in the 1990s, with construction beginning in 2002. The circuit was officially opened in 2004, and the first Bahrain Grand Prix was held that same year. 

The circuit was designed by Hermann Tilke, a German architect and motorsports engineer, who also designed several other F1 tracks around the world. The layout of the circuit is 5.4 kilometers long, and features 15 turns, including a long straight that leads into a tight hairpin turn.

Circuit Guide

First Grand Prix

2004

Number of Laps

57

Circuit Length

5.412km

Race Distance

308.238km

Lap Record

1:31.447 Pedro de la Rosa (2005)

Famous features of the Bahrain International Circuit

  • The circuit is known for its smooth surface, wide track, and long straightaways, which provide opportunities for overtaking and exciting racing.
  • One of the most iconic features of the circuit is the long straightaway leading into a tight hairpin turn.
  • The circuit also boasts state-of-the-art facilities and amenities for all its visitors, including grandstands, VIP areas, and hospitality suites.
  • The circuit is also home to the Bahrain Racing School and the Sakhir Go-Karting Circuit.
  • The circuit also has a unique feature of floodlighting, which allows for night racing, as seen in the Bahrain Grand Prix.
Bahrain Sakhir Circuit map

Racing at the Bahrain International Circuit

The Bahrain International Circuit plays host to a variety of motorsports events throughout the year. The highlight of the calendar is the Bahrain Grand Prix, which is held in March and is part of the Formula One World Championship. 

The circuit also hosts the FIA World Endurance Championship, the GP2 Series, the Porsche Supercup, and various other motorsports events. The circuit is known for its smooth surface, wide track, and long straightaways, which provide opportunities for overtaking and exciting racing. 

Some of the most notable moments in the circuit’s history include Fernando Alonso’s come-from-behind victory in the 2005 Bahrain Grand Prix, and Lewis Hamilton’s dramatic last-lap win in the 2014 Bahrain Grand Prix.

Compared to others Formula 1 circuits

RaceCircuitCircuit lengthRace distanceLaps
Monaco Grand PrixCircuit de Monaco3.337km260.286km78
Dutch Grand PrixCircuit Zandvoort4.259km306.648km72
Austrian Grand PrixRed Bull Ring4.318km306.452km71
Mexican Grand PrixAutodromo Hermanos Rodrígues4.304km305.354km71
Brazilian Grand PrixAutodromo Jose Carlos Pace4.309km305.879km71
Canadian Grand PrixCircuit Gilles-Villeneuve4.361km305.270km70
Hungarian Grand PrixHungaroring4.381km306.630km70
Spanish Grand PrixCircuit de Barcelona-Catalunya4.655km307.104km66
Singapore Grand PrixMarina Bay Street Circuit5.063km308.706km61
Australian Grand PrixMelbourne Grand Prix Circuit – Albert Park5.303km307.574km58
Bahrain Grand PrixBahrain International Circuit5.412km308.238km57
Miami Grand PrixMiami International Autodrome5.410km308.37km57
Chinese Grand PrixShanghai International Circuit5.451km305.066km56
United States Grand PrixCircuit of the Americas5.513km308.405km56
Abu Dhabi Grand PrixYAS Marina Circuit5.554km305.355km55
French Grand PrixCircuit Paul Ricard5.842km309.690km53
Italian Grand PrixAutodromo Nazionale Monza5.793km306.720km53
Las Vegas Grand PrixLas Vegas Street Circuit6.120km305.880km50
Japanese Grand PrixSuzuka International Racing Course5.807km307.471km53
British Grand PrixSilverstone Circuit5.891km306.198km52
Azerbaijan Grand PrixBaku City Circuit6.003km306.049km51
Saudi Arabia Grand PrixJeddah Corniche Circuit6.175km308.750km50
Belgian Grand PrixCircuit de Spa-Francorchamps7.004km308.052km44

Facilities and Amenities

The Bahrain International Circuit is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and amenities for all its visitors. Spectators can enjoy a variety of grandstands, VIP areas, and hospitality suites that offer panoramic views of the circuit. 

Teams and media have access to modern pit lane and paddock facilities, as well as a media center. The circuit also has a range of food and beverage options, merchandise shops, and other services. There are several hotels located near the circuit, and transportation options are available to and from the circuit on race days.

Winners at Bahrain Grand Prix

These are the drivers who’ve won the Bahrain Grand Prix in previous years (from 2010-2022):

  • 2010: Fernando Alonso (Ferrari)
  • 2011: Canceled due to Bahrain uprising
  • 2012: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing)
  • 2013: Sebastian Vettel (Red Bull Racing)
  • 2014: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
  • 2015: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
  • 2016: Nico Rosberg (Mercedes)
  • 2017: Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari)
  • 2018: Sebastian Vettel (Ferrari)
  • 2019: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
  • 2020: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
  • 2021: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
  • 2022: Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)

How to bet on the Bahrain Grand Prix

The Bahrain Grand Prix is one of the most exciting events on the Formula One calendar, and for many fans, it’s also an opportunity to place bets on their favorite drivers and teams. If you’re interested in betting on the Bahrain Grand Prix, there are a few things to keep in mind. 

First, it’s important to research and understand the different types of bets available, such as the winner of the race, the pole position, and the fastest lap. It’s also important to keep an eye on the odds and any changes in the drivers’ and teams’ performance, as well as the weather conditions, which can greatly impact the outcome of the race. Additionally, it’s recommended to use reputable online betting sites that are licensed and regulated, and to always gamble responsibly and within your means.

How to buy tickets for the Bahrain Grand Prix

The Bahrain Grand Prix is one of the most popular events on the Formula One calendar, drawing fans from all over the world to the Bahrain International Circuit. 

If you’re planning to attend the race, it’s important to know how to buy tickets. There are a variety of ticket options available, including grandstand seating and hospitality packages. 

The best way to purchase tickets is through the official circuit website or authorized ticketing agents. Prices and availability vary depending on the event and seating location, with early bird discounts and promotions often available. When buying tickets, it’s recommended to consider factors such as seating location and view of the track. It is also important to take note of important deadlines for purchasing tickets, as well as the refund, exchange and cancellation policy.

Frequently asked questions about Bahrain International Circuit

What types of motorsports events are held at the Bahrain International Circuit?

The Bahrain International Circuit is home to a variety of motorsports events throughout the year, including the Bahrain Grand Prix, which is part of the Formula One World Championship, the FIA World Endurance Championship, the GP2 Series, the Porsche Supercup and many other events.

What amenities and facilities are available at the Bahrain International Circuit?

The circuit offers a range of amenities and facilities for visitors, including grandstands, VIP areas, hospitality suites, modern pit lane and paddock facilities, a media center, food and beverage options, merchandise shops and other services. Additionally, there are several hotels located near the circuit, and transportation options are available to and from the circuit on race days.

Can I buy tickets to watch the Bahrain Grand Prix at the Bahrain International Circuit?

Yes, tickets for the Bahrain Grand Prix and other motorsports events at the Bahrain International Circuit can be purchased through the official circuit website or authorized ticketing agents. Prices and availability vary depending on the event and seating location. It is recommended to check the official website for the latest information on ticket sales.

Conclusion

The Bahrain International Circuit is an important venue in the world of motorsports, known for its modern facilities, exciting racing, and world-class events. The circuit continues to evolve and improve, with plans for further development and expansion in the future. The Bahrain International Circuit is a must-see destination for motorsports fans and enthusiasts, offering an exciting and unique experience.

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Lisette Holm
Lisette Holm
Lisette Holm is a Formula 1 expert who has not missed a single Grand Prix in the last 4 years. She is one of the founders and her job at Formulapedia.com is to educate others who are interested in F1 in order to raise their level of knowledge. Lisette cheers on Mercedes AMG-Petronas.

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