Bahrain's Formula 1 Grand Prix has attracted the highest number of fans ever, setting a record for sales, since the kingdom started hosting the motorsport in 2004.
Excitement roared around the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir as F1 fans from across the world flocked to the track yesterday, kicking off the 2022 season.
“I’m looking forward to a fantastic weekend, and I am grateful to everyone showing up,” His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, told the GDN, as he toured the circuit after the first F1 practice session.
“It’s the best year ever, in terms of sales. The new Formula 1 cars are great and although it’s going to be a while before they settle down, there is going to be a lot of quick and continuous development.”
HRH Prince Salman toured the paddock and track area, where he met senior Formula 1 figures, team managers, racers and organisers, and was briefed on preparations before the start of the final race.
In a statement issued later, he said the Kingdom had become a global destination for motorsport events, thanks to its skilled national workforce and great record in hosting successful races over the last two decades.
HRH Prince Salman expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the workforce, and praised their dedication and contribution to the organisation of various sporting events.
While hundreds of visitors yesterday prowled the entertainment area enjoying the street performers and games, motorsport diehards cheered from the stands, watching the first two F1 practice sessions and the first-ever Formula 3 session to be held in Bahrain.
The entertainment area was dotted with members of the ‘Orange Army’ as Dutch fans arrived in droves to support their countryman Max Verstappen of Red Bull, who is the reigning world champion.
There was an air of adrenaline around the area as global fans enjoyed a day out at the track, two years after the Covid-19 pandemic put a hamper on fan engagement at the F1 race.
Although vaccinated and recovered fans had been permitted at last year’s F1 season-opener, travel restrictions around the world had affected international attendance numbers.
During yesterday’s festivities, families and friends flooded the vending area, enjoying snacks from the numerous food stalls, rides like the Ghost Rider, games like the eSports fastest lap challenge and entertainers like the Aras Stilt Band.
In the evening, DJs Afrojack and Don Diablo entertained crowds with their dance beats, bringing an energetic soundtrack to the jubilance of once again being able to attend large-scale sporting events after two years.
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