The highly anticipated first round of the 2026 Formula 1 World Championship is here, marking the ultimate test for 20 drivers and their teams. Following Red Bull’s commanding run, Ferrari’s resurgence, and a season of high drama in 2025, the stage is set for another unpredictable and electrifying year.

Which team will rise to claim the championship crown? How will the hierarchy shift among the 10 Formula 1 teams and 20 drivers? These questions will be answered at the season’s thrilling debut race.

The 2026 Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix challenges drivers at the iconic Sakhir International Circuit. Nestled in the desert near Manama, Bahrain’s capital, this track combines technical complexity with high-speed excitement. With 15 corners, three DRS zones, and a 1km straight where cars hit speeds of 330 km/h under the dazzling Bahraini night sky, the spectacle promises unforgettable moments.

All eyes turn to Max Verstappen and Lando Norris, each intent on seizing early momentum, while Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc and seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton aim to carry their team’s renewed charge forward.

Get ready for fierce competition, breathtaking overtakes, and edge-of-your-seat action at the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix – the first chapter of an unforgettable Formula 1 season.

Don’t miss this unforgettable weekend at the Bahrain Grand Prix, taking place on Friday, 10 – Sunday, 12 April 2026. Your ticket grants access to the thrill of the race, with the choice of seating in the Victory Grandstand, University Grandstand, Turn 1 Grandstand, Beyon Grandstand or the Main Grandstand (depending on the offer chosen)

Please note:

Tickets will be sent to you by email in the form of electronic e-tickets, in the days leading up to the race. All tickets are numbered seats in covered grandstands and offer a view of a large screen. 

The Bahrain Grand Prix spans an exhilarating 57 laps, covering a total distance of 308.2 km. Here’s how the action-packed weekend unfolds:

Friday, 10 April 2026

• Free Practice 1
• Free Practice 2

Saturday, 11 April 2026

• Free Practice 3
• Qualifying

Sunday, 12 April 2026

• The Bahrain Grand Prix

Set in the lively Seef district of Manama, the Barceló Hotel & Residences 4* offers a stylish retreat where comfort and elegance come together. With 195 beautifully designed rooms and suites, guests can enjoy comfort and pure relaxation. Whether travelling as a couple, family, or group of friends, every stay is tailored with thoughtful touches and contemporary luxury.

This is a bed and breakfast stay.

Days here can be as relaxing or active as you wish, with a rooftop pool perfect for soaking up the Bahraini sun, a fully equipped gym for energising workouts, and a Wellness area* soon to offer indulgent spa treatments. Families are well catered for with a lively Kids Club, while couples can enjoy serene spaces designed for rest and relaxation. Every moment invites you to slow down, recharge, and enjoy Bahrain at your own pace

Positioned at the entrance to the final turn, you'll enjoy a prime view of the thrilling final sprint and witness the first driver cross the finish line in triumph.

Situated at the exit of the first zone, you'll have the perfect vantage point to watch the single-seaters at full throttle as they approach the sequence leading into the second DRS zone. A guaranteed spectacle awaits.

Positioned at the end of the first straight, you'll have a clear view of the intense braking zone where single-seaters approach at 210 miles/h, delivering some of the most dramatic overtakes. Pure adrenaline is guaranteed.

Nestled in the heart of the circuit's second, most technical section, you'll witness the single-seaters brake sharply into a banked hairpin before charging into the third DRS zone at full speed.

Situated right at the heart of the action, on the start/finish line opposite the paddocks, you’ll feel the full energy as you witness the excitement of pre-race preparations and the spectacular trophy presentation and post-race podium celebrations.

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.

Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.

Manama, the capital of Bahrain, is a dynamic city where the old and new coexist in harmony. From its traditional souks to its modern skyscrapers, the city offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and cosmopolitan flair. With a rich history dating back thousands of years and a thriving modern scene, Manama presents a fascinating destination that caters to every kind of traveller.

Must-sees:

• Bahrain National Museum: A must-visit for history enthusiasts, this museum showcases Bahrain’s rich cultural heritage, with artefacts from the ancient Dilmun civilisation to modern-day Bahrain.
• Al-Fateh Grand Mosque: One of the largest mosques in the world, its stunning architecture provides an insight into Islamic culture and is open to visitors with guided tours.
• Manama Souq: This lively traditional market is perfect for shopping for spices, textiles, jewellery, and local crafts, offering a true taste of Bahraini life.
• Qal’at al-Bahrain (Bahrain Fort): A UNESCO World Heritage site, this ancient fort reveals Bahrain’s historical significance, with layers of history dating back thousands of years.
• The Avenues: A luxury shopping mall with a stunning waterfront view, offering high-end boutiques and dining options, perfect for an afternoon of leisure.

Culinary culture:

Manama’s food scene is a vibrant mix of flavours influenced by diverse cultures. Traditional machboos (spiced rice with meat) and samboosa (savory pastries) are staples, while fresh seafood is always a highlight. For dessert, try halwa, a nutty sweet treat beloved by locals. The city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere is reflected in its eclectic dining scene, with a variety of international cuisines available alongside Middle Eastern favourites.

Dive deeper:

For those seeking a quieter escape, visit the island of Muharraq, home to traditional Bahraini houses, museums, and the Pearling Path, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nature lovers can explore Al Areen Wildlife Park, where native wildlife and lush landscapes offer a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Good to know:

Bahrain’s currency is the Bahraini Dinar (BHD), and public transport includes taxis, buses, and ferries. The ideal time to visit is during the cooler months, from November to March, when the temperatures are mild and ideal for exploring the city.