One of the most unique destinations on the calendar, Bahrain’s imposing desert backdrop significantly influences track conditions and car set-up over the Grand Prix weekend at Sakhir.

Regional winds intermittently blow desert sands onto the 5.412km circuit which inevitably pose certain challenges for all but the leading driver as they pursue their counterparts and their cars are blasted with air infused with damaging sand particles.

The sandy conditions therefore dictate the need for heavy duty air filters to prevent the air cooling inlets becoming blocked. An essential requirement, but one which mustn’t compromise aerodynamic efficiency.

Grip levels are another casualty of the sand and can be considerably reduced when it settles on the track making all but the racing line dangerously slippery.

The track is a complex mix of 15 slow and medium speed corners connected by three high speed straights, the fastest of which will see the cars peak at 320kph at the end of the pit straight going into turn one.

With the lowest cornering speed registered at just above 100kph at Sakhir’s turn five, and taken in first gear, the number of extreme braking events is high so brake preservation is paramount.

Due to the long, high speed stretches, each lap will demand a full throttle percentage of 62%; combined with the braking, cooling and sand variables, engine reliability will be a considerable factor in the race’s outcome.

A circuit built to house 50,000 spectators, the third race of the season will undoubtedly deliver another exciting Formula One Grand Prix.
 

History and background:  

The Kingdom of Bahrain hosts Formula One for the fifth time in 2008. The circuit is located south of the capital Manama and is part of the municipality of Sakhir.

The generously laid out complex of the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) covers an area of 170 hectares and was designed by German architect Hermann Tilke.

There are five circuit variants, the longest of which is the GP track at 5.412 km.  

Since gaining independence from Britain in 1971, Bahrain has been an Arab Emirate.

The country’s geographical area (665 square kilometres) is spread over an archipelago of 33 islands off the Saudi Arabian coast.

The capital Manama is on the main island (578 square kilometres).  

Oil has been a natural resource in Bahrain since 1932, though supplies are now dwindling.

The processing industry, along with rich gas fields and international banking, have gained in economic significance.