Layout: Actual
When was the track built?
It was the first Tilke’s creation in the Middle East, designed in 2002 and completed in 2004, as usual with state-of-the-art facilities in and around the circuit.
It has hosted Formula 1 GPs and winter testing since, offering also different layouts suitable for the top motorsport series.
For the new Formula 1 organization, the “standard” 5.4km layout will be used.
When was its first Grand Prix?
In 2004, a race dominated by Ferrari, with a Schumacher-Barrichello 1-2 bot in qualifying and on the Sunday; Jenson Button finished third with his Bar-Honda, exploiting Montoya’s Williams-BMW gearbox issues.
It will have a secured spot in the F1 Middle East Continental Series.
What’s the circuit like?
A very interesting racetrack that normally provides great racing and decent amounts of overtaking, thanks to its three long and wide straights followed by hard braking turns.
The most challenging point are the tight, downhill, off-camber Turn 10 and the uphill fast turn 12; wind and sand make set-ups and driving even more difficult.
Where is it located?
In Sakhir, in central western Bahrain, around 30 minutes from the capital Manama and 45 minutes from its International airport. (+ 26°01’56”, + 50°30’38”)
All Along The Racetrack 