The engines roared back to life as Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), known as The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East, hosted the electrifying opening round of National Race Day 2025/26. With Bahrain Touring Car Challenge (BTCC) and Time Attack races lighting up the 2.550-kilometre Inner Track, motorsport fans were treated to non-stop action from day to night in Sakhir.
Double Delight for Ali Almansoori in BTCC
The spotlight of the evening fell on Ali Almansoori, who powered his Honda Civic to back-to-back victories in both BTCC races. After qualifying on pole with a 1:18.758 lap, Almansoori dominated race one, crossing the finish line in 20:19.298, 6.375 seconds ahead of runner-up Moaaz Elzahrawi, also in a Honda Civic. Ahmed Bajnaid secured third, completing a fiercely contested podium.
In race two, Almansoori once again proved unbeatable, finishing in 20:37.175 with a commanding 7.379-second lead over Bajnaid. Elzahrawi settled for third place this time, while James Taylor, Hamad Khamis, and Rakan Al Fayez rounded out the top finishers.
Time Attack Delivers Edge-of-the-Seat Action
The Time Attack competition was just as gripping, with winners crowned across multiple classes:
- MA Class: Omar Adel Alkhudhur with 1:15.915
- MB Class: Fares Almutari with 1:20.167
- SA Category: Yazeed Alsaheel with 1:11.373
- SB Class: Hamad Salah Albalooshi with 1:24.765
- SU Category: Ibrahim Al Sharidah with 1:11.324
- ULA Class: Sulaiman Alsaheel with 1:09.882
- ULB Class: Hisham Bediea Al Bediae with 1:20.669
The variety of winners showcased the depth of local talent and highlighted the competitiveness of the event.
Motorsport Spirit at The Home of Motorsport
Organised by BIC in collaboration with the Bahrain Motor Federation, the Circuit Racing Commission, and the Auto X and Drift Commission, National Race Day continues to be a platform where Bahraini and regional drivers push their limits in front of passionate motorsport fans.
What’s Next on the 2025/26 Calendar?
The National Race Day season features seven rounds, making it one of Bahrain’s most anticipated motorsport events:
- Round 2: 24 October 2025
- Round 3: 21 November 2025
- Round 4: 10 January 2026
- Round 5: 6 February 2026
- Round 6: 13 March 2026
- Finale: 24 April 2026
Each round promises more high-octane racing and a celebration of motorsport culture at the iconic Sakhir circuit.
Why National Race Day Matters for Bahrain
The National Race Day Bahrain is more than just competition—it’s about nurturing local talent, celebrating racing passion, and solidifying Bahrain’s reputation as a global motorsport hub. With events like BTCC and Time Attack, the BIC proves why it truly is the Home of Motorsport in the Middle East.
Plan Your Visit to Bahrain International Circuit
Fans eager to witness the excitement live can get more details and book tickets at bahraingp.com or by calling the BIC Hotline +973-17450000. Don’t miss your chance to be part of Bahrain’s ultimate motorsport weekend.
