Bahrain International Circuit – Corner by Corner Guide

 

Bahrain International Circuit – Corner by Corner Guide

It’s that time of the week when all of us here at Senate Grand Prix focus on the next race — the Sakhir Bahrain Grand Prix.

This iconic circuit has been part of the F1® calendar since 2004 and has now hosted 21 races, making it the first-ever Formula One event in the Middle East.

Over the years, Bahrain has delivered some unforgettable moments—from the legendary wheel-to-wheel battle between Lewis Hamilton and Nico Rosberg on April 6, 2014, to Romain Grosjean’s harrowing crash on November 29, 2020, when his car burst into flames in one of the most shocking accidents in recent F1® history.

Location: Sakhir, Bahrain

Track Length: 5.412 km (3.363 mi)

Total Corners: 15

DRS Zones: 3

Lap Record (Race): 1:31.447 – Pedro de la Rosa, 2005

Turn 1 – “Michael Schumacher Turn”

With a heavy braking zone on the long main straight, Turn 1 is a prime overtaking opportunity.

Turn 2

A quick left kink that flows immediately after Turn 1.

Turn 3

Leads uphill into the second DRS zone. It is not a real corner on its own, but a flat-out acceleration zone that sets up overtakes into Turn 4.

Turn 4

Another heavy braking zone. A wide entry allows for alternate racing lines and side-by-side action.

Turns 5, 6, and 7

A flowing, high-speed S-section. It is very demanding on tyre grip and car balance.

Turn 8

A tight downhill hairpin. Easy to lock up or run wide, especially with worn tyres.

Turns 9 & 10

One of the trickiest complexes on the circuit.

Turn 11

A fast, wide left-hander that requires a confident, clean entry. Getting this right sets up the following fast section.

Turn 12

A flat-out right-hand kink that stresses tyres. Cars must be well-balanced to maintain momentum through this sweeping section.

Turn 13

A slower, tightening right-hander. It opens onto a straight with DRS — exiting well and preparing for a potential overtake into Turn 14 is essential.

Turn 14 & 15 (Double Apex)

Effectively, one long, right-hand bend. Drivers must nail the exit for a strong run onto the main straight and to defend from DRS attacks into Turn 1.

At this point of the week, if we make a prediction, it will be about the F1® Teams with Ferrari looking to make their mark, the Mercedes are competitive and due a win, and with Red Bull proving they have a race-winning car. Now, McLaren is so strong at their home sponsors' race.