HISTORY OF THE CIRCUIT

Construction of the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) began in 2002, with the German architect Hermann Tilke, renowned for designing modern F1 circuits, leading the project. The circuit was constructed at a cost of approximately $150 million and was completed in an impressive 16 months, despite the challenges posed by the desert environment. The track features 15 corners and has a total length of 5.412 kilometres (3.363 miles).

The BIC was officially inaugurated on April 4, 2004, hosting the first-ever Bahrain Grand Prix. This event marked the first Formula 1 race to be held in the Middle East, positioning Bahrain as a key player in the international motorsport scene.

The Bahrain International Circuit is known for its multiple configurations, allowing it to host a variety of motorsport events. The Grand Prix circuit is the most prominent, but there are also configurations for endurance racing, drag racing, and other forms of motorsport. The track's layout includes significant elevation changes and a mix of long straights and tight corners, making it a favourite among drivers and fans.

One of the unique aspects of the BIC is its capability to host night races. In 2014, the Bahrain Grand Prix celebrated its 10th anniversary with the first-ever night race at the circuit, adding a new dimension to the racing experience with spectacular lighting and cooler evening temperatures.

Since its inception, the Bahrain International Circuit has hosted numerous notable events beyond Formula 1. These include the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC), the Bahrain GT Festival, and various regional and local motorsport competitions.

In addition to motorsport, the BIC has also been a venue for major cultural and entertainment events, including concerts and exhibitions, further cementing its status as a multifunctional facility.

Inaugural Race (2004)
The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) hosted its first Formula 1 Grand Prix on April 4, 2004, marking the first F1 race held in the Middle East. The inaugural race was won by Michael Schumacher of Ferrari, who dominated the season to win his seventh and final World Championship.

Night Race Debut (2014)
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Bahrain Grand Prix, the 2014 race was held as a night race for the first time. This event featured spectacular floodlighting and created a unique visual spectacle. The race itself was thrilling, with Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg of Mercedes engaging in a memorable battle, ultimately won by Hamilton.

Memorable Battles and Moments
2010: The Bahrain Grand Prix saw the debut of the new track layout, the "Endurance Circuit," which was 6.299 km long. Fernando Alonso won the race in his debut for Ferrari, starting his season with a victory.

2012: Sebastian Vettel secured a win for Red Bull Racing, marking his first victory of the season and contributing to his third consecutive World Championship.

2019: Charles Leclerc achieved his first career pole position and seemed poised to win the race. However, an engine issue dropped him to third place, allowing Lewis Hamilton to claim victory. Despite the setback, Leclerc's performance was widely praised.

2020: As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Bahrain had the privilege of hosting back-to-back Formula 1 races on consecutive weekends at the Bahrain International Circuit.

Dramatic Incident
2020: The race was marked by a horrific crash involving Romain Grosjean, whose car split in half and burst into flames. Miraculously, Grosjean escaped with minor injuries thanks to the Halo device and quick response from the marshals and medical team.

The winners of the F1 Grand Prix races held in Bahrain
2004: Michael Schumacher (Ferrari)
2005: Fernando Alonso (Renault)
2006: Fernando Alonso (Renault)
2007: Felipe Massa (Ferrari)
2008: Felipe Massa (Ferrari)
2009: Jenson Button (Brawn GP)
2010: Fernando Alonso (Ferrari)
2011: (Race not held)
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) (Bahrain Grand Prix)
2020: Sergio Pérez (Racing Point) (Sakhir Grand Prix )
2021: Lewis Hamilton (Mercedes)
2022: Charles Leclerc (Ferrari)
2023: Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing)
2024: Max Verstappen (Red Bull Racing)