The F1 season kicked off with fast paced energy at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir. Here are some memorable moments from an unforgettable race:
Max Verstappen proves he is an unbeatable champion
Max Verstappen was in a class of his own as he powered defending world champions Red Bull Racing to spectacular one-two finish in a hugely thrilling Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2023, kicking off the new F1 season in front of a massive sold-out crowd at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir.
The reigning F1 double world champion started from pole and made the most of the clear air ahead of him, taking his two-stop strategy to his first-ever victory in Bahrain while building a comfortable lead ahead of teammate Sergio Perez.
Verstappen commented after his win: “You never really know what will happen later on in the race, so very happy to finally win here in Bahrain. I think we have a good race package, we can definitely fight with this so a big thank you to the team.”
Alonso is not going anywhere
Fernando Alonso, also a two-time F1 world champion and three-time winner at BIC, joined the Red Bull pair in the top three in his maiden grand prix weekend with Aston Martin.
Sell out crowds
Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), “The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East”, announced a record sell-out crowd for the final day of the 2023 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. The 36,000 spectators who witnessed another incredible race under the lights in Sakhir was the highest single day attendance in the race’s 19-year history, with a total of 99,500 attending over the weekend.
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Commenting on the conclusion of the 2023 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, Arif Rahimi, Chairman of Bahrain International Circuit, said:
“I congratulate Max Verstappen on his first ever victory in Bahrain, for what was an incredible race under the stars of Sakhir.
“Our sell-our crowd over the weekend reflects the incredible popularity of Formula 1 across the world. What is especially encouraging is that we are attracting more fans than ever before from overseas and also bringing in a new generation to the sport. Moreover, the passion of the Bahraini fans is as intense as I have ever seen.
“The success of our race would not be possible without the support of so many. I offer a particular thanks to Formula 1 and the FIA for everything that they do for the sport. I also thank the teams, Bahrain Motor Federation, marshals and all those who have supported us to deliver the spectacle of F1.”
Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of Bahrain International Circuit, said:
“Over the course of the racing weekend, fans have been treated to an incredible festival of motorsport and entertainment, creating lifelong memories for those who have joined us at the Home of Motorsport in the Middle East. To deliver an evet of this nature involves the support of all of Team Bahrain and I thank all those who have worked so hard. I offer a particular thanks to my team at BIC, who have worked tirelessly to deliver the show for fans.”
2024 is going to be amazing:
“As the dust settles on our 2023 race, we are already looking towards the future. Next year represents a landmark 20th anniversary for us as a circuit and our involvement in F1. For that, we plan to step it up another year for our fans with a special celebration. We look forward to welcoming everyone again next year. "
Most sustainable race ever:
Bahrain International Circuit, announced that the FORMULA 1 GULF AIR BAHRAIN GRAND PRIX 2023 will be its most sustainable race ever. It also announced future plans to ensure it further reduces its impact on the planet and supports F1’s 2030 net zero goal and well as those of The Kingdom of Bahrain.
BIC’s combined energy saving measures will save over 30% in energy use over this year.
Additionally, Gulf Air, the national carrier of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and the World’s Most Improved Airlines 2022, performed a low emission flypast at the 2023 Formula 1 season opener.
Recycling and waste
For F1 2023, BIC has upgraded and expanded its recycling facilities. BIC has been working with specialist company Urbaser to increase the number of segregated waste bins across the Paddock and public areas and have also introduced a special composting machine that enables fans in public areas to dispose of waste food in a dedicated composting machine. Bin collections by Urbaser are also undertaken using electric scooters.
BIC is also working on other measures to reduce plastic use. A major new element for 2023 is the introduction of water dispensers in fan areas, where fans can fill up their reusable water bottles with free drinking water, thus saving on plastic water bottle usage.
In addition, BIC is also working with specialist organisations for the recycling of waste oil and steel.
Measurement and Carbon Accounting
In order to ensure best practice across all of these areas and for BIC to be able to ensure proper and accountable measurement, it has recently partnered with the SEE Institute, a specialist advisory company across sustainability. The partnership will encompass delivering new best practices for the circuit in all areas of sustainability and will also manage areas of measurement and carbon accounting.
Sheikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Chief Executive of Bahrain International Circuit, said:
“We have substantially enhanced our efforts across many areas of sustainability this year, working alongside our partners and across the Government to ensure we continue our journey to limit our impact in the planet.
“The measures we have put in place this year, combined with our ambitious plans on expanding our solar facility, as well as other plans for the future, will help ensure we support F1 and the Government in Bahrain in their net zero targets.”
Ellen Jones, Head of Sustainability at Formula 1 said:
“It is great to see how the Bahrain Grand Prix has embraced sustainability, demonstrating the direct action we are looking for from our promoters in Formula 1 as we continue towards our goal of being Net Zero by 2030. Last year we issued guidance to all our Race Promoters to help assist them in best practice when running a sustainable event looking at key areas such as energy, plastic & waste, wellbeing & nature and local fan travel. We are looking forward to seeing these initiatives in place at events throughout the season, starting with the season opener in Bahrain this weekend.”
