The first lights-out of 2021 is nearing closer and closer, as teams and drivers touch down in Bahrain.
Pre-season testing left reams to the imagination, and in as little as two days, we’ll get to see what the competition is really like on track.
With new teams, new drivers, and new circuits, 2021 is set to be a special one, so here’s everything you need to know ahead of the Bahrain Grand Prix.
The Circuit
Since its inaugural race in 2004, there have been seventeen Formula 1 races held at the Bahrain International Circuit – a track that allows top speeds of 329.6 km/h.
The Bahrain Grand Prix has been held sixteen times, while the inaugural Sakhir Grand Prix was held on the outer layout of the circuit in 2020 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sebastian Vettel and Lewis Hamilton are the drivers with the most Bahrain Grand Prix wins – having each won on four occasions.
Ferrari remains the team with the most wins here, having taken victory on six occasions.
Meanwhile, Mercedes are the engine manufacturer with the most victories at the Bahrain International Circuit – Mercedes-powered cars have won seven times.
The first race of the season will take place across 57 laps of the 5.412km Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir on Sunday, March 28.
The drivers have a total of 308.238KM to claim the first podium steps of 2021, so who will it be?
When/ Where to Watch?
Free practice 1 will take place tomorrow, Friday, March 26 at 11:30 am Irish time, with FP2 kicking off just hours later at 3:00 pm.
FP3 begins on Saturday at 12:00 pm GMT and will be followed by Qualifying at 3:00 pm.
For the big day on Sunday, coverage will be on Sky and NOW with lights out at 4:00 pm.
You can catch live coverage of the entire 2021 season, every weekend on Sky Sports F1, or grab a NOW sports package.
Drivers and their Teams
To keep up to date with the driver & constructor standings you can click here