bahrainthismonth.com | MAY 2025 FORMULA 1 12 A record sell-out crowd for the final day of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2025 witnessed history at the Bahrain International Circuit as McLaren claimed their maiden ‘home’ win. 37,700 spectators flocked to BIC on race day to witness an incredible spectacle of racing and entertainment, with a total of 105,000 attending over the weekend. ‘The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East’ was the setting for a thrilling 57-lap night race, held under lights as the fourth round of the 2025 FIA F1 World Championship. It was won by the papaya team’s Oscar Piastri. Aref Rahimi, Chairman of Bahrain International Circuit, said: “I congratulate Oscar Piastri on his victory in Bahrain and to McLaren F1 Team on their first win at our Sakhir circuit. “This year has yet again demonstrated the incredible popularity of motorsport around the world. Our crowds grow bigger every year and their passion for the sport and energy they bring to the race weekend is profound. This gives us great confidence for the future of this great sport in Bahrain.” His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, presented Piastri the winning driver’s trophy during the podium ceremonies. Also giving out the trophies were His Highness Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, His Majesty the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs and President of the Supreme Council for Youth and Sports (SCYS); His Excellency Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Motor Federation and Vice-President for Sport for MENA of the FIA; and His Excellency Khalid Taqi, Chairman of the Board of Gulf Air Group. The event celebrated 75 years of F1 and of Bahrain’s national carrier and grand prix title sponsor Gulf Air. In attendance at the start during the pre-race formalities were HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad; His Excellency Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1 Group; His Excellency Mohammed Ben Sulayem, President of the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA); HE Shaikh Abdulla bin Isa; and His Excellency Aref Rahimi, Chairman of BIC. Piastri claimed the victory from pole position. It was the fourth win of his F1 career and second of the season, following his triumph in China, and it all came in his 50th F1 race. Piastri had a quick getaway at the start and maintained a strong pace throughout the race. He did well to stay ahead following a safety car period a little beyond the race’s midway point, and then, with clear air ahead of him, extended his lead en route to taking the chequered flag as the fireworks lit up the Sakhir sky in style. Luca di Montezemolo, former Chairperson of Ferrari, had the honour of waving the chequered flag at the end of the race. Record Crowds Witness History
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