The 2025 Formula One season has kicked off and Bahrain will play host to the fourth meeting from April 11-13 at the Bahrain International Circuit. It has been a fixture on the calendar since 2004, and was the first Formula One race to be held in the Middle East, which now extends to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, the Qatar Grand Prix, and the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
Held in the desert area of Sakhir, the 5.4 km track provides great racing and a decent amount of overtaking. Drivers have to contend with wind, racing under floodlights, and the difficulty of finding a decent set-up with the wide temperature fluctuations between sessions.
The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) was designed by renowned German engineer Hermann Tilke and built at a cost of approximately USD 150 million (INR 12 billion). The entire facility took less than 18 months to build—quite a feat considering the massive undertaking that was needed to develop the land.
Initially scheduled to take two years to complete, Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone asked if it could be brought forward by six months; this was agreed upon. The “keys” to the circuit were handed over in just 496 days to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa on March 17, 2004.
The Bahrain International Circuit features five Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) certified track layouts, more than anywhere else in the world. This allows the circuit, which has a Grade 1 license, to host a range of motor racing events, including the Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, the FIA World Endurance Championship Six Hours of Bahrain, races in the GP2 Series, and the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup. The track’s most challenging point is the tight, downhill, off-camber Turn 10 left-hander, while the fast run through Turn 12 is another highlight.
The Bahrain Grand Prix has been a night race since 2014, but the first race in 2004 took place under unusually cloudy skies. The race was dominated by the two Ferraris, with Michael Schumacher winning out from Rubens Barrichello. The crowds were also treated to a fantastic dogfight between the Jaguar of Mark Webber and the Renault of Fernando Alonso.
In 2020, due to circumstances that resulted from the COVID-19 pandemic, Bahrain had the honour of hosting a double-header of Formula One races on consecutive weekends at the Bahrain International Circuit. However, the event is best remembered for a fiery crash of Haas’ Romain Grosjean into the barriers at high speed. The collision split the car in half, released the fuel and caused a significant fire, but the driver was able to exit the car unaided after 28 seconds. Grosjean sustained minor burn injuries to his hands and ankles before being airlifted to a nearby military hospital. Bahrain’s fire marshalls were later awarded the FIA President’s medal for their bravery in assisting the driver during this incident.
There are five grandstands around the circuit where guests can catch the action. The main grandstand is adjacent to the F1 village and entertainment area and has spectacular views of the start-finish straight. The Turn 1 grandstand offers a panoramic view of some of the best action on the circuit from views up the main straight to the action on the best overtaking corner on the circuit. The University grandstand, located close to Turns 2 and 3, has great views of Turn 1, 9, and 10. The Beyon grandstand has a good view of the inner section of the track as cars emerge from the technical hairpin of Turn 10 and accelerate up the back straight. Lastly, the Victory grandstand is where you will be the first to witness the victor as they complete the final corner (Turn 15) towards the finish line.
If you’re looking for a premium F1 experience, consider reserving tickets to the Dome grandstand. Located along the main straight with comfortable, seat-back style seating, fans can enjoy exceptional views of the podium and pit entry, and also see the cars as they navigate the final turn before accelerating down the track.
For exclusive perks, spectators can consider joining The Paddock Club for the ultimate in world-class hospitality. You can experience comfortable, prestigiously decorated seating; a privileged viewing position; flat screen monitors all around the lounge; gourmet meals with fine beverages; VIP pitlane walkabouts at specially allocated times; access to live entertainment around the circuit; and a grandstand seat with every Paddock Club pass.
Take a flight to Bahrain International Airport (BAH). From the airport, you can hire a car, use Uber or taxis, or take advantage of free shuttle buses provided during the Grand Prix weekend.
Given its location, there's limited stay options near the circuit. The five-star Sofitel Bahrain Zallaq Thalassa Sea & Spa, just four kms away, comes highly recommended. On race weekends, a free shuttle bus ferries between the track and hotel. Similarly, Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain is a 10-minute drive. It is advisable to book these hotels well in advance as they are often fully sold out, especially during racing weekends.
