By Phil Huff
March 29 2005

Located in Sakhir, in the south of the country, the US$150 million Bahrain International Circuit opened early in 2004 and hosts the region's second FIA Formula One World Championship Grand Prix. The circuit and its facilities itself are state-of-the-art. The track actually consists of 5 separate circuits, including a 2.5km oval and a 1.2km drag strip. The 5.417 km Grand Prix configuration consists of a kilometre long start/finish straight, 12 turns and a relief that ranges between 0 and 18 metres, to give an undulating track that is sure to test the drivers. There are three genuine overtaking points, the most exciting being the downhill run into the hairpin at the back of the circuit.

The facilities include a spectacular 10,000 seater grandstand, a total capacity of 50,000, an impressive pit complex for up to 18 teams and a large media centre for 500 people. Dominating the circuit is the nine-storey Sakhir Tower, which will host the VIP's attending the race in consummate luxury.

Last year's inaugural race saw Ferrari's Michael Schumacher claim the hat-trick: Pole position, fastest lap and the race win. BAR Honda's Jenson Button managed to claim a second podium finish, taking third at the flag, while team mate Takuma Sato also claimed three points, bringing his 006 home in fifth position.