Sir Jackie Stewart to drive tribute lap on Bahrain race day, supporting his Race Against Dementia charity

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

Sir Jackie Stewart, legendary Formula 1 icon and three-time World Champion, took to the Bahrain International Circuit during the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 for a heartfelt tribute lap in support of Race Against Dementia — the charity he founded in 2016.

His emotional return to the track coincided with two major milestones: the 75th anniversary of Formula 1 and the 60th anniversary of his debut in the sport. At exactly 3:40 p.m., Sir Jackie drove his iconic 1973 Tyrrell — the car that carried him to his third world title — donning a special helmet signed by all 17 living World Champions.

The tribute followed the British Embassy in Bahrain’s “One Lap Challenge” — a charity event that saw more than 1,500 participants complete a symbolic lap of the circuit, raising over $50,000 for Race Against Dementia. A donation cheque was officially presented just before Sir Jackie’s lap, in the presence of British Ambassador to Bahrain, His Excellency Alastair Long, and Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of the Bahrain International Circuit.

Race Against Dementia works to fast-track scientific breakthroughs in dementia research through Formula 1-style high-performance programmes, supporting innovative researchers in the field.

Mark Stewart, Chair of the foundation, shared his pride in the initiative, stating, “This race is not just for the past, but for the future,” urging ongoing support to help find a cure for the disease.

Formula 1 President and CEO Stefano Domenicali praised the tribute, calling it “a symbolic moment celebrating our sport’s history and supporting a noble humanitarian cause.”

FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem also offered his full support, describing Sir Jackie’s mission as “inspirational” and showcasing the power of motorsport to create a positive impact beyond racing.