*** ----> Max Verstappen wins first Bahrain GP title as sell-out crowd witness F1 spectacle at BIC | THE DAILY TRIBUNE | KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN

Max Verstappen wins first Bahrain GP title as sell-out crowd witness F1 spectacle at BIC

TDT | Manama                                        

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com   

Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), “The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East”, announced yesterday a record sell-out crowd for the final day of the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2023.

The 36,000 spectators who witnessed another incredible race under the lights in Sakhir was the highest single-day attendance in the race’s 19-year history, with a total of 99,500 attending over the weekend.

Commenting on the conclusion of the 2023 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix, BIC chairman Arif Rahimi said: “I congratulate Max Verstappen on his first ever victory in Bahrain, for what was an incredible race under the stars of Sakhir.

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“Our sell-out crowd over the weekend reflects the incredible popularity of Formula 1 across the world. What is especially encouraging is that we are attracting more fans than ever before from overseas and also bringing in a new generation to the sport. Moreover, the passion of the Bahraini fans is as intense as I have ever seen.

“The success of our race would not be possible without the support of so many. I offer a particular thanks to Formula 1 and the FIA for everything that they do for the sport. I also thank the teams, Bahrain Motor Federation, marshals and all those who have supported us to deliver the spectacle of F1.”

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BIC Chief Executive Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa said: “Over the course of the racing weekend, fans have been treated to an incredible festival of motorsport and entertainment, creating lifelong memories for those who have joined us at the Home of Motorsport in the Middle East.

“To deliver an event of this nature involves the support of all of Team Bahrain and I thank all those who have worked so hard. I offer a particular thanks to my team at BIC, who have worked tirelessly to deliver the show for fans.

“As the dust settles on our 2023 race, we are already looking towards the future. Next year represents a landmark 20th anniversary for us as a circuit and our involvement in F1. For that, we plan to step it up another year for our fans with a special celebration. We look forward to welcoming everyone again next year.”