SAKHIR, BAHRAIN – The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) officially commenced the countdown to the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2026 with an elegant launch event, revealing a season that promises to be the most revolutionary in the sport’s history. Under the theme “The Island of Racing Passion,” the Kingdom prepares to host the fourth round of the FIA F1 World Championship from April 10 to 12.
A New Era of Engineering
The 2026 season marks the dawn of a “new era” for Formula 1, characterized by sweeping regulation changes. Guests at the launch, including McLaren Team Principal Andrea Stella and world-renowned commentator David Croft, witnessed the unveiling of a 2026 F1 car replica in a stunning Bahrain livery. These next-generation machines—featuring 50/50 hybrid power units and active aerodynamics—are designed for greater agility and closer wheel-to-wheel racing.
The Height of Hospitality
Reflecting the event’s global allure, demand for the Grand Prix has reached record heights. BIC Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa confirmed that the Turn 1 Grandstand is officially sold out, with the Main Grandstand at 98% capacity. Most notably for our readers, the Corporate Lounges and Champions Club hospitality suites have already reached total capacity, with limited availability remaining for the F1 Paddock Club and the exclusive Dome by F1 Experiences.
A Star-Studded Grid & Entertainment
The 2026 grid expands to 22 drivers with the arrival of Cadillac, joining a competitive field led by reigning champion Lando Norris. The paddock will see a historic concentration of talent, with four World Champions—Lewis Hamilton (now in Ferrari red), Max Verstappen, Fernando Alonso, and Lewis Hamilton—battling for supremacy under the Sakhir floodlights.
Beyond the track, the social calendar is headlined by superstar DJ Martin Garrix, who takes center stage on Friday night. From the high-energy F1 Village to the refined hospitality suites, the weekend is set to be the pinnacle of the regional social season.
Pre-Season Preview
For those desiring an early look at the 2026 innovations, the F1 Aramco Pre-Season Testing begins this week at the BIC. Exclusive hospitality packages are available for the testing sessions, offering five-star cuisine and unparalleled views directly above the pit lane as the teams reveal their secret designs for the first time.
