JEDDAH, 14 October 2003 — Saudi and other Gulf motor sport fans will have an opportunity to watch the Formula One Grand Prix in the Bahraini desert early next year. Called Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, it will be held for three days from April 2. The event is termed as the third Grand Prix of the 2004 Formula One calendar and first of its kind in the Middle East.
"Arrangements are in full swing, both on the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in the desert at Sakhir, south of Manama, and the infrastructure in the island state to cope with the expected rush of over 100,000 motor sport fans from the Kingdom and elsewhere in the Gulf, notably Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Qatar," the Bahrain-based BIC General Manager Hans Geist told a press conference at Jeddah Hilton on Sunday. He gave a presentation to invitees later in the evening.
"The entire construction at the site is a blend of Arabic tradition and modernity. FIA Formula One World Championship officials are closely monitoring the construction of the BIC.
It comprises at least six individual tracks, four of which can be used simultaneously. "The successful operation of BIT is a national objective led by Bahraini Crown Prince Shaikh Salman ibn Hamed Al Khalifa, a motor sport enthusiast and honorary president of the Bahrain Motor Federation.
Following the Formula One Grand Prix, the circuit will be in continuous use year-round for local, regional and other international events," Geist said.
Bahrain signed a long-term agreement on Sept. 14, 2002, to host a round of the FIA Formula One World Championship, starting from 2004.
The track is being constructed on a 168-hectare site in the southwest of the main island.
Its inner and outer tracks are configured to form the Formula One Circuit and will allow unparalleled viewing from the grandstands and the VIP tower. The circuit is 5.48 km.
The track has been designed to accommodate a number of racing disciplines, corporate and incentive events and the testing by manufacturers and teams of chassis, engines, tires and other components.
Its five-star corporate facilities include eight-storied VIP Tower to provide a setting for a large variety of corporate events and presentations.
A Formula One Golf Trophy Tournament will also take place during that week at the Riffa Golf Club where Formula 1 drivers, team members, officials and others will take part in a charity golf tournament.
