The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), famously known as the Home of Motorsport in the Middle East, is all set to kickstart its 2025/2026 racing calendar with back-to-back action at the Sakhir Rotax MAX Challenge (SRMC). Hosted at the world-class Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC) in Sakhir, the double-header will unfold on Friday and Saturday, September 26–27, 2025. This grassroots motorsport championship promises adrenaline, speed, and family fun — with free public entry adding to the excitement.
What is the Sakhir Rotax MAX Challenge?
The SRMC is a prestigious karting series powered by Rotax engines, attracting both emerging talents and seasoned drivers. It serves as the warm-up for the Bahrain Rotax MAX Challenge (BRMC), the Kingdom’s premier karting championship, starting later in October.
The SRMC 2025/2026 features four rounds across five categories:
- Micro MAX
- Mini MAX
- Junior MAX
- Senior MAX
- DD2 MAX
This year’s competition is particularly important as Bahrain gears up to host the Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals (RMCGF) at BIC and BIKC from 29 November to 6 December 2025.
Racing Schedule & Format
Fans can enjoy a full day of karting action. Here’s the schedule for both days:
- Free Practice: 2:15 pm
- Qualifying Practice: 2:55 pm
- Pre-Finals: 3:50 pm
- Final Races: From 5:30 pm onwards
- Podium Ceremonies: 8:00 pm
Nearly 40 drivers will compete this weekend, making for fierce battles on the track and thrilling entertainment for spectators.
Rising Stars & Top Contenders
The Senior MAX category headlines the weekend with 15 competitors, including defending BRMC champion Tye Mejia, who will face strong challenges from racers like Luca Houghton, Mohammed Alhasan, and Yousif Al A’ali.
Other highlights include:
- Micro MAX: Featuring Shiv Tummala, Charlie Page, and Abdulaziz Al Sarraf.
- Mini MAX: Last season’s Micro MAX champion Tariq Soofi moving up a class.
- Junior MAX: A competitive grid with talents like Khaled Najjar and Rashid Hilal.
- DD2 MAX: Featuring Raoul Sadi, Musaad Al Bassam, and Abdulqader Qassim.
Why Fans Shouldn’t Miss It
The SRMC is more than just karting — it’s an entry point for future racing champions and a showcase of Bahrain’s motorsport culture. With free access at BIC Sakhir Rotax MAX, families, motorsport fans, and visitors can experience the thrill up close. This double-header sets the stage for an action-packed season leading into the BRMC’s eight-round championship and the world-class Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals 2025.
Plan Your Visit
- Location: Bahrain International Karting Circuit (BIKC), Sakhir
- Entry: Free for all spectators
- Dates: September 26–27, 2025
