Bahrain circuit attracting attention

Following the unparalleled success of the 2004 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix the Bahrain International Circuit is now in the process of building a robust and exciting programme of activities for the rest of the year.

The new circuit will be operational 365 days a year and its management team have been in talks with various interested parties over the last few months to secure regional and international motor sporting events.

The first such venture is an agreement for the development of a BMW Performance Centre in Bahrain, operated by Spooner Motor Sport Developments. The performance centre, based at the Bahrain International Circuit, will offer racing and driver training in the category's single- seat FB2 cars and BMW M-series saloon cars.

The Bahrain International Circuit was constructed to provide world class services to promote motor sports in Bahrain and the region. The third round of the 2004 FIA Formula One World Championship set the organisational standard for the future and other international motor sporting events are now looking at the opportunities that Bahrain offers.

A number of exploratory negotiations are in progress to bring leading regional and international motor sporting events to Bahrain. Nothing has been finalised or approved and this includes the recently announced A1 Series, but the heightened awareness delivered by the recent Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix is certain to drive interest.

Bahrain International Circuit plans an exciting calendar of events for the future. There are a great number of possibilities and the activities being considered include dragster racing, truck racing, touring cars, rallying and motorcycle racing. Additionally, the Circuit has been configured to attract car, tyre and component manufacturers looking to use the geographical and climatic conditions for hot weather development and durability testing.

The Circuit can also be used for corporate entertainment, product launches, exhibition and seminars. Local companies and circuit sponsors such as Batelco have already started using the facilities to conduct seminars and training.

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