Luke Czepiela Makes History Flying F1 Racing Line Above Bahrain Circuit
In a groundbreaking aviation feat at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), Red Bull athlete and Rotax Brand Ambassador Luke Czepiela has become the first pilot to fly the full racing line of a Formula 1 Grand Prix track from the air.
The achievement forms part of Aircraft Meets Racetrack, the first project under BRP-Rotax’s Brand Ambassador partnership with Czepiela, launched in 2025. The short film documenting the historic flight premiered during the Bahrain International Circuit’s official Formula 1 pre-season press conference on Tuesday.
Precision in the Sky
In a remarkable display of control and technical skill, Czepiela traced the circuit’s ideal racing line at low altitude, replicating the exact path followed by drivers on the ground. The performance included short takeoffs and landings (STOL) along the start/finish straight, adding another layer of complexity to the maneuver.
Flying at low level over the Grand Prix track presented significant challenges. With shifting wind conditions, more than 495 light poles, and the circuit’s tight, enclosed layout, the operation allowed virtually no margin for error.
“Flying a racing line from the air demands absolute control at low altitude and instant reaction in every phase,” said Czepiela. “It is precision flying in its purest form.”
Powered by Rotax
The flight was carried out in a CubCrafters Carbon Cub UL, equipped with a 160-horsepower Rotax 916 iS engine. The aircraft’s lightweight STOL configuration, rapid throttle response, and strong power-to-weight ratio enabled the precise aerial replication of the racing line.
Production of the project took place during the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Bahrain, marking the first time all project partners collaborated on-site. In coordination with Bahrain International Circuit, Red Bull Bahrain, and local authorities, a comprehensive safety and operational plan was implemented.
The track and surrounding airspace were fully closed to ensure uninterrupted filming, supported by continuous air traffic coordination and emergency services on standby.
Uniting Racing and Aviation
Peter Ölsinger, General Manager of BRP-Rotax and Vice-President Sales, Marketing RPS-Business & Communications, said the project aimed to merge two worlds driven by precision and performance.
“With Luke Czepiela, we aimed to create something that authentically unites our two passions: racing and aviation,” Ölsinger said. “This project represents technical precision, long-standing partnerships, and the courage to pursue new creative paths.”
Beyond its visual spectacle, Aircraft Meets Racetrack highlights Rotax’s broader mission to connect disciplines, push boundaries, and deliver high-performance experiences both on the ground and in the air.
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