Ferrari Hypercar

    4 November 2023

    The 8 Hours of Bahrain, at the Sakhir circuit in the suburbs of Manama, concludes the eleventh edition of the FIA WEC, with last points at stake for the overall standings after seven rounds in nine months. 

    In the middle of the desert, the Bahrain International Circuit will, as always, put the competing cars to the test. One of these is the Prancing Horse’s 499P, which will round off its great comeback season in the Hypercar class of the World Endurance Championship here.

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    Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir
    8 Hours of Bahrain 2023

    First used by Formula 1 in 2004, the circuit boasts various hi-tech facilities, especially the VIP Tower, an eight-storey building from which guests can view the entire track. The circuit is 5.417 km long and a firm drivers' favourite, offering many places where they can pass their rivals.

    With a combination of fast and slow corners and an unusually long straight, the main difficulties are a lack of grip and tyre wear. The wind continually blows the desert sand onto the asphalt. To overcome this problem, the organisers have developed a bitumen with a very special grain that always ensures sufficient grip.

    8 Hours of Bahrain 2023
    Sectors
    Turns
    • LocationSakhirBahrain
    • Turns15
    • Circuit Length5 412 km

    Where is the Bahrain circuit located?

    The Bahrain International Circuit, also called “Sakhir” is located in Sakhir, on the outskirts of Manama, the capital of Bahrain.

    When was the Bahrain circuit inaugurated?

    The circuit was built to host the Bahrain Formula 1 Grand Prix. The first edition dates back to 2004, and building work was completed just in time for the race, although some parts of the facility were completed later.

    Who designed the circuit?

    The project was designed by the studio of German architect Hermann Tilke, which has built or modified numerous motor racing circuits.

    What are the features of the area in which it is located?

    The Bahrain International Circuit is built in the middle of a desert. Therefore, the main problem is the wind blowing sand onto the asphalt, compromising the running and safety of the races. As a solution, the organisers started using a special adhesive spray to treat the sandy areas immediately around the track. Nevertheless, in 2009, a violent sandstorm brought some private testing to a halt.

    How many track layouts are available?

    There are six circuit layouts available. In addition to the Grand Prix Circuit layout (5,412 metres) there is also the Outer Circuit, Endurance Circuit, Paddock Circuit, Oasis/Inner Circuit and an oval.

    499P is the name of the new Le Mans Hypercar with which Ferrari will tackle the FIA WEC in the top class from 2023, a name evoking the history of the Prancing Horse manufacturer.
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