2019 Bahrain GP: facts and stats about the Bahrain International Circuit layout. Facts and stats about the Bahrain International Circuit layout.

Visiting the race is a mix of two very contrasting experiences. On the one hand, there is Bahrain’s bustling capital Manama, situated in the north east corner of the island. The name translates literally to mean ‘sleeping place’, but don’t be misled: it’s a hub of bright lights, bars and exotic souqs.

On the other hand, there’s the Sakhir Circuit. The track is first-rate, with some of the best facilities in the world, but it’s situated in the middle of the desert. As the wind picks up each evening and the early sunset takes hold, the place has a magical ‘Arabian Nights’ feel to it.

Bahrain International Circuit

Number of Laps: 57
Circuit Length: 5.412km
Race Distance: 308.238 km
Lap Record: 1:31.447 Pedro de la Rosa (2005)

GRAND MOMENTS
2003 – Nearly a year into construction, the Bahrain International Circuit saw construction starting in December 2002, and was on the path to becoming a historic monument in Bahrain’s identity, by becoming the first track in the desert.

2004 – The completion and inauguration of Bahrain International Circuit – the first circuit in the Middle East to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix.

2006 – The Desert 400 of the V8 Supercars Australia Championship takes place at BIC for the first time.

2007 – Bahrain International Circuit becomes the first circuit to be awarded the distinguished FIA Institute Centre of Excellence award.

2010 – The Bahrain Grand Prix opens Formula 1’s 2010 season to celebrate F1’s Diamond Julibee. Racing is held on BIC’s 6.299-kilometre Endurance Circuit for the first and only time.

2014 – The track hosts its first ever Bahrain Grand Prix at night to celebrate the 10th year of Formula 1 taking place at BIC

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