#21 Bahrain International Circuit
In the year 2004, Bahrain made history as the first country in the Middle East to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix race. The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC)’s maiden international racing event saw Ferrari’s Michael Schumacher crossing the checkered flag to victory, Bahrain’s event was recognized as the “Best Organised Grand Prix” by the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA-the governing body of motorsports).
Soon, BIC would become the “home of motorsports” in the region. Apart from the 19 GrandPrixraces held to date, the 5.412-kilometre track also hosts the FIA World Endurance ChampionshipSix Hours of Bahrain, races in the GP2 Series, and the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup. The ultramodern facility was designed by German engineer Hermann Tilke. After 18 months of construction, the circuit was open with a record five FIA-certified track layouts, hosting a range of motor racing events and off-track experiences.
This article is part of an ongoing series – 51 Great Things About Bahrain as a tribute to the Kingdom’s 51st National Day. Read more in this special edition.