Bahrain International Circuit: 20 years of a modern classic

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is one of the most advanced motor racing facilities in the world.

Spearheaded by the wise leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the Kingdom of Bahrain became the region’s first-ever host nation of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship on April 4, 2004 (04/04/04).

This year, the Kingdom of Bahrain is celebrating its landmark 20th anniversary in F1—the pinnacle of all motor racing.

The grand prix has been themed “20 Years of a Modern Classic,"  fittingly commemorating the rich legacy the Kingdom and BIC have made over the past two decades—one that continues to grow each and every year.

“The idea of a modern classic is to reflect the fact that we are a modern circuit but have had the chance to create 20 years of history in the Middle East, which we are really proud of,” said BIC Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa.

“I think there are many fans who might find it difficult to believe that we are 20 years old, as we are often seen as one of the ‘new’ Grand Prix. However, we are honoured to be amongst the first in a generation of modern tracks, the first in the Middle East, and have had the opportunity to contribute to 20 years of racing heritage in F1.”

This year’s race weekend has been historic in more ways than one.

It is the season-opening round of the 2024 F1 campaign, which features a record 24 races and is set to be held all through December of this year.

The 57-lap main event was also held for the first time ever on a Saturday night, making for an additional spectacle.

The popularity of Bahrain’s event and the Kingdom’s significance in the world of motorsport is surely undeniable, and the global spotlight has once again brightly illuminated BIC this past race week. Thirty-seven countries were represented on track throughout the meeting.

Action was held in four ultra-competitive series, with F1 being supported by the FIA Formula 2 Championship, the FIA Formula 3 Championship, and the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East (PCCME).

Across all four categories, a total of 92 competitors suited up and lined up on the grid in their respective championships.

These include 20 apiece for F1 and the PCCME, 22 for F2, and 30 for F3.

That made for a packed schedule on track, with non-stop racing thrills and plenty of family entertainment throughout.

The Daily Tribune congratulates the Kingdom of Bahrain and Bahrain International Circuit on the massive success of the F1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2024!