F1: 2010 Bahrain Grand Prix

Built on former desert, the track sits about 30 kilometres south of the island kingdom’s capital city, Manama. In 2004 Bahrain became the first Middle Eastern country to host a round of the FIA Formula One World Championship; this is the second time it has hosted the
season-opening Grand Prix – the first being in 2006.

Several changes have been made to the track for 2010. It’s now configured with inner and outer circuits, a new loop, and has 23 turns: 13 right-handers and 10 left-handers. The additional loop, starting just after the old turn four, brings eight new corners – a fast left leading into a sequence of five bends followed by a quick kink then a hairpin – all with a significant elevation change. The layout will be a new challenge for the drivers and should add overtaking opportunities. BIC’s desert location means sand blown on to the circuit by frequent strong winds can reduce grip levels.

To help ensure maximum grip, the track surface was laid with a special type of sandstone. The Bahrain Grand Prix, with its Arabian climate and desert setting, presents competitors with a unique challenge: all must cope with heat, dehydration and sand.

Credits: wilswong