On the 14th September 2002 the Kingdom of Bahrain signed a long term agreement with Mr. Bernie Ecclestone to host a round of the FIA Formula One World Championship, starting from 2004.

The successful conclusion of the agreement has been perfectly timed with the commencement of the construction of Bahrain Racing Circuit which will be the most advanced facility of its kind in the world. The facility includes a challenging Grand Prix Circuit which meets the requirements for hosting Formula One cars. The development will also provide the Middle East with an international standard venue for all other forms of car and motorcycle racing as well as testing and a range of other motoring activities. The Circuit will be operational 365 days a year.

Located in Sakhir, in the south of the country, the US$150 million Bahrain Racing Circuit will be operational in early 2004, and available to host a round of the 2004 FIA Formula One World Championship on the 04.04. of 2004.

The successful operation of Bahrain International Circuit is a national objective, led by HH the Crown Prince, Shaikh Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, a lifelong motor sport enthusiast and Honorary President of the Bahrain Motor Federation (BMF).

Bahrain already hosts the Bahrain International Rally (part of the FIA Middle East Championship) and the new circuit will provide the catalyst for unprecedented growth of this sport.

The Bahrain Government has underwritten the development of Bahrain International Circuit and sees the Circuit and the events as one of the keys to growth in employment and new skills to further enhance the economy and firmly put Bahrain on the world map.

Successfully bringing Formula One to Bahrain has been the ultimate goal and more international events will follow. The world media attention will undoubtedly assist in the promotion of Bahrain as a growing tourist destination and regional centre for finance, commerce and professional services.