Bahrain F1 Circuit Runs Tests To Prepare For Night Grand Prix Next Season

Bahrain circuit officials tested a new floodlight system last weekend as part of their "plans to turn their 10th-anniversary Formula One Grand Prix into a night race next year," according to THE NATIONAL. Bahrain Int'l Circuit CEO Salman Bin Isa Al Khalifa said, "I believe that there can be no better way for us to mark our 10th anniversary in F1 by demonstrating our long-term commitment to the sport through this significant investment." Singapore currently hosts F1's "only full-night race," with the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix a "day-to-night event, with the sun setting during the race." Bahrain's race would "start after sunset." The race is "scheduled for April 6 on the provisional F1 calendar, with the official calendar" set to be announced by motorsports governing body FIA on Friday (THE NATIONAL, 11/29). REUTERS reported the "track floodlighting for the F1 race will involve 495 lighting poles, ranging in height" from 10-45m, and be "suitable for high definition TV broadcasting" (REUTERS, 11/29).