Best viewpoints at Bahrain
A prominent track in the Middle East, the Bahrain International Circuit is proven as a challenging race venue for many forms of motorsport. Whether you’re a diehard WEC fan or taking the plunge into watching endurance racing for the first time at WEC Bahrain 2023, finding the right place to sit can make all the difference.
We’ve created this guide to getting the best seats around the racetrack. With options including multiple grandstands and general admission seating, there’s a lot to cover - so let’s get started.
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Where is Bahrain International Circuit?
As the name suggests, the Bahrain International Circuit is located in Bahrain, an island nation in the Persian Gulf. Known for its historical significance throughout various Islamic civilisations that have flourished here, it has also been notable for its much-coveted pearl fisheries. If you’re looking to relax in your downtime, Bahrain has hot weather and the kind of beaches you would see on a postcard, all of which are within driving range.
Getting back on track, the Bahrain International Circuit or “Ḥalba al-Baḥrayn ad-Dawliyya” sits in the heart of the Sakhir desert. It is also a popular destination spot for activities like winter camping.
What Races Take Place at Bahrain?
A versatile track, it is adaptable to suit different forms of racing. This ranges from drag races, to endurance, like the World Endurance Championship. The types of racing in the Bahrain circuit include:
- Bahrain F1 circuit and Formula One Sakhir Grand Prix
- Bahrain Superprix
- FIA World Endurance Championship
- Moto GP
- GP2 and GP3 series
- Porsche Supercup and Formula BMW
- V8 Supercars Desert 400
Where Are the Best Places to Watch the Action at Bahrain?
There is a range of spectator areas, between general admission and grandstands, with each offering a different viewing experience of the action. But which should you choose? Here are your options:
Main Grandstand
If you’re looking for an extravagant seating choice, the main grandstand offers an excellent vantage point. With a direct view of the starting positions and the finish line, a place here can show race-defining moments that you’ll want to see. You’ll also be able to catch a glimpse of pit crews working behind the scenes.
Pros:
- Iconic track section
- Wide open view of the full start/finish straight
- View pit operations as a bonus
Cons
- Likely to be a more expensive option
- No view of racing action involving corners
Beyon Grandstand
Another large stand option, the Beyon Grandstand (previously called Oasis Grandstand) is a great pick for optimal viewing of the Bahrain racetrack. The viewing area sits opposite the F1 paddock and the pits for a great unobstructed view of turns 7 -10. You can also access the hospitality suite for food and drinks.
Pros
- Unobstructed view
- Multiple turns to spectate.
- Hospitality service for added comfort
Cons
- No start/finish or pit view
Turn 1 Grandstand
Another suitable mid-price option, this area overlooks the main straight and turn 1. This is a hard braking zone so expect exciting action at every lap. The proximity of the pitlane means you might be lucky enough to witness some tense duels here as cars return to the track after putting fresh tires on.
Pros
- More of a budget-friendly choice
- Good chance of seeing some aggressive racing action
Cons
- A slow corner section so no high-speed viewing
University Grandstands
Three different small grandstands are built close to the first three turns, and these might be your go-to option if you want affordable but quality seating. Grandstand 1 has the best seating here, and provides a great view of overtakes across turn 1. Stands 2 and 3 sit further up the second straight, so you’ll see car accelerate away
Pros
- Affordable seating
- Multiple turns to choose from
Cons
- At the periphery of the track
- No pit lane view
Victory Grandstands
Finally, we have the Victory grandstand, a set of two stands near the back of turn 14. Stand 1 offers a better infield view of the area, while Stand 2 offers a focused view of the apex of the turn.
Pros
- Great view of the final corners of each lap
- Multiple view choices
- Options between turn-focused and infield view
Cons
- Limited visibility, depending on which stand you choose.
- Only one corner visible
General Admission
Prefer to find your own viewpoint at Bahrain? General admission allows you to find a spot at two main sections of the track.
- The first one is at the end of the second straight, after the University Grandstand, in the run-up to turn 4. Here you might get to witness some courageous late braking as drivers look to get the advantage into the tight right-hand corner.
- The second general admission section sits just after turn 13, at the start of the final straight before the Victory Grandstand. In this latter point of the circuit you’ll see cars accelerate away towards turn 14 as drivers look to keep their lap times down in this final sector.
How Do I Get to Bahrain International Circuit?
When travelling to the Bahrain international circuit, you needn’t worry about traversing deserts. Instead, Manama is the closest urban area from where you can head to the Bahrain racing track with your Hertz rental.
For a comprehensive guide on getting to the country, and the racetrack itself - check out our visitor guide to Bahrain.
Summary
Racing in Bahrain offers a glorious experience for any motorsports fan. Whether you’re focused on watching aggressive overtaking, high-speed straights or perfectly executed pit stops, there are great viewing options for you to choose from.
Plan your trip today and dive into the world of WEC racing in Bahrain.
