MANAMA: Scattered rainfall and gloomy skies failed to dampen the mood at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) yesterday, as action got underway in the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020.
Seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton was the fastest man in the two 90-minute F1 practice sessions of the weekend, sending a warning to his rivals that he still means business despite having already secured this season’s drivers’ title and the constructors’ crown for Mercedes.
The first session experienced some light rain, but not enough to have a significant impact on the action.
Formula 1’s second 90-minute practice session of the weekend followed later in the evening under lights at 6pm.
The Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2020 has been dedicated to frontline health workers, first responders and their families.
While tomorrow’s race is closed to the general public, frontline health workers and first responders and members of their immediate families have been invited to watch.
Precautionary guidelines have been put in place to ensure optimal social distancing.
The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix marks the 15th of 17 rounds in the 2020 FIA F1 World Championship. It is the first time in the history of the event that it is being held so late in the season.
It kicks off the first-ever F1 double-header to be hosted by the kingdom.
The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will be followed by the F1 Rolex Sakhir Grand Prix from December 4 to 6, capping the kingdom’s F1 double-header.
The Rolex Sakhir Grand Prix will be an additional spectacle for both competitors and fans, as it will be taking place along BIC’s 3.543km Outer Track, where lap times are forecast to be under a minute.
The layout will be used for a competitive event for the very first time, and the race will feature 87 laps, which is the highest lap count of the season.
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