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Countdown begins for Bahrain’s biggest motorsport extravaganza and fans are already snapping up tickets, writes Mai Al-Khatib Camille.
The much-awaited Formula One Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2023 is set to be held at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) from March 3 to 5 as the opening round for the season ... with a musical performance from an international Grammy-nominated artist kicking off the event.
The details were announced by the BIC at a press meet moderated by veteran F1 commentator David Croft at Jumeirah Gulf of Bahrain Resort and Spa.
The slogan of the race– ‘Follow Your Champion’— was revealed by BIC chief executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, who said it celebrates the fact that every F1 driver is a “true champion.”
“Drivers have always been at the heart of the sport,” he said. “Our campaign aims to celebrate each and every one of them who have incredible talent and determination to succeed, and at the same time, encouraging fans to not just choose their champion but also follow their racing throughout the season.”
The campaign seems to be working as twice as many Dutch fans of reigning F1 world champion Max Verstappen have already purchased their early bird tickets – hinting at an even stronger ‘Orange Army’ presence.
Motoring enthusiasts will also be able to celebrate their favourite drivers on Friday evening (March 3) with what is likely to be a phenomenal performance from multi-platinum-selling DJ Snake.
The French-Algerian producer, whose name is William Grigahcine, is currently making headlines with his electro dance, Arabesque and North African beats track Disco Maghreb – which he says ‘is possibly his most personal release yet’.
The hit maker has accumulated more than 37 billion audio streams, 7bn YouTube views and 100 platinum single certifications during his career.
What first put him on the musical map was Bird Machine with French musician Alesia and Turn Down for What with Lil Jon in 2013. Another hit was Lean On with MØ and Diplo’s Major Lazer as well as former Pussycat Doll Melody Thornton in 2015.
In 2018, Billboard named him the number nine on their 2018 ranking of dance musicians.
He has also collaborated with global pop superstars such as Justin Bieber with Let Me Love You and with Selena Gomez, Cardi B and Ozuna on Taki Taki.
His performance will likely be punchy and fun.
Details about other artists to perform that weekend at the BIC and Al Dana Amphitheatre will be announced in the weeks leading up to the race.
This year’s F1 race will also add two hospitality options to the existing Paddock Club and corporate boxes, the latter of which have already been sold out.
The Champions Club and the Dome Lounge hospitality options are being unveiled for the first time at this year’s race weekend.
The entry-level Dome Lounge three-day tickets, priced at BD300, will include complimentary food and beverages at the BIC Dome, as well as access to the FashionTV after-party.
Visit bahraingp.com for details.
