About Bahrain
The Bahrain International Circuit is a motorsport venue opened in 2004 and used for drag racing, GP2 Series, and the annual Bahrain Grand Prix. The 2004 Grand Prix was the first held in the Middle East. Beginning in 2006, Australian V8 Supercars raced at the BIC, with the event known as the Desert 400. 24 Hour endurance races are also hosted at BIC. The circuit has a FIA Grade 1 license.
Located in the heart of the Sakhir desert, the track is known for its massive run-off areas which prevent sand from blowing onto the circuit. The abrasive surface leads to high tire degradation, making strategy a key component of races here. In 2014, the race transitioned to a night format, with a state-of-the-art floodlighting system illuminating the track.
The layout features long straights and tight corners, rewarding good traction and braking stability. Turn 10 is notoriously difficult due to a downhill braking zone where front-left tire locking is common. The circuit offers multiple layouts, including the "Outer Loop" used for the dramatic Sakhir Grand Prix in 2020.