Bahrain: Sakhir Track Facts

By Phil Huff
March 8 2006

Located in Sakhir, in the south of the country, the US$150 million Bahrain International Circuit opened early in 2004 and hosts the region's third FIA Formula One World Championship Grand Prix.

The development of the circuit was underwritten by the Bahrain Government and was firmly supported by the Crown Prince of Bahrain, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, a lifelong motor sport enthusiast.

The circuit and its facilities itself are state-of-the-art. The track actually consists of five separate circuits, including a 2.5km oval and a 1.2km drag strip. The 5.417 km Grand Prix configuration consists of a kilometre long start/finish straight, 12 turns, including several low-speed corners which increases the technical emphasis on aerodynamic efficiency and traction, and a relief that ranges between 0 and 18 metres, to give an undulating track that is sure to test the drivers. There are three genuine overtaking points, the most exciting being the downhill run into the hairpin at the back of the circuit.

The hot weather poses a challenge for both car and driver and although the humidity is generally lower than in the Far East, track temperatures will be high.

The facilities include a spectacular 10,000 seater grandstand, a total capacity of 50,000, an impressive pit complex for up to 18 teams and a large media centre for 500 people. Dominating the circuit is the nine-storey Sakhir Tower, which will host the VIP's attending the race in consummate luxury.

Last year's race saw Fernando Alonso secure the win, while BAR Honda performed somewhat below par. Qualifying 11th and 13th, Jenson Button and Takuma Sato both retired before the end of the race with clutch and brake failure respectively.

The inaugural race saw Jenson managing to claim a second podium finish, taking third at the flag, while team mate Takuma Sato also claimed three points, bringing his 006 home in fifth position.