BIC extends Worldwide Network agreement with NHRA

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) announced yesterday it has extended its NHRA Worldwide Network agreement with US-based National Hot Rod Association (NHRA). As part of the deal, BIC will use the specially designed “Worldwide Drag Racing” NHRA oval for broad promotional purposes and draw on NHRA’s decades of experience and history.

BIC Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa commented: “We have been part of the international network since 2011 and during that time it has been an instrumental support in the growth of the sport in Bahrain, whilst helping us to professionalise further our operations. “As a circuit, we are able to attract world-class teams which are competitive at the highest level, globally. “We look to help continue the growth of drag racing in the region.”

Josh Peterson, NHRA vice-president racing administration added: “Drag Racing is extremely popular in Bahrain and we are excited to continue working with the track to help continue to grow their programmes.” BIC will have access to various departments within NHRA and may also request training at the track site. The track can also participate in any of NHRA’s Division Tech Seminars, SFI-certification and training seminars, and emergency response training seminars. As an NHRA Worldwide Network track, the facility will be able to award Wally trophies for national champions.

NHRA will establish a link to the track’s website from NHRA.com and be listed in a newly created Worldwide Affiliation directory of National Dragster and NHRA.com. The worldwide rules adopted by FIA for drag racing originate from NHRA’s Rulebook. Members of the commission meet annually to develop the rulebook and discuss drag racing on a global basis. Currently, organised series are conducted in Europe and Australia.