Porsche GT Driver Neel Jani has been visiting the Bahrain International Circuit since for nearly two decades.
We spoke to the LMGTE Pro driver about some of his favourite memories and experiences from the race track where the FIA WEC will host its first-ever double-header in a few weeks’ time. Below is what he had to say.
1. Tell us about your first experience of the Bahrain International Circuit?
“In February 2004 I did a show run with Sauber F1 Team on the streets of Bahrain to launch the first-ever Formula 1 race in Bahrain. I also visited the track, so that was my first experience, and the start of many!”
2. What’s your favourite memory from there?
“That’s easy – definitely winning the World Championship in LMP1 as this was the last race of 2016!”
3. Do you have any preferred sections of the circuit – if so, where and why?
“I like the middle sector of the track with the quick right & left where it goes after down the hill to the hairpin. You need to be precise as a driver and is a good overtaking place.”
4. What’s key to a fast lap at the Bahrain International Circuit?
“To be good on braking and to look after your tyres. It is a challenging track for the brakes and high degradation on tyres.”
5. What do you think will be the biggest challenges between the daytime 6 hour race this year followed by the day/night 8 hour race for the WEC double-header?
“The air and track temperature will be a key factor for set-up and strategy… let’s see how it goes!”
Round five of the WEC – the 6 Hours of Bahrain – will take place on Saturday 30 October and the WEC season-finale - the 8 Hours of Bahrain - will be staged the following weekend (Saturday 6 November).
