The 2010 Formula One racing season kicked off in Bahrain last month with a sold-out event which delivered a major boost to the island’s tourism industry.
The Gulf Air Formula One Bahrain Grand Prix, won by Fernando Alonso, had the honour to begin the race’s 60th anniversary season with all involved determined to put on a good show.
Hotels and apartments across the island reported a huge rise in occupancies compared with last year when the event fell victim to both the global downturn and the blistering temperatures.
And the Bahrain international circuit put on a weekend of entertainment which offered something for everyone from serious F1 fans, who were in for a treat with 18 of the 20 living champions attending the race alongside their iconic vehicles, to those who simply wanted to enjoy the experience of a three-day event with racing, Tanzanian circus act Mama Afrika, musicians, jugglers, stilt walkers, marching bands and more.
His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and Crown Prince and Deputy Supreme Commander Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa welcomed visiting royalty and VIPs such as King Juan Carlos of Spain, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and the Crown Prince of Luxembourg.
King Hamad said the event had given Bahrain’s status in the international sporting arena a huge boost.