 Ecclestone has praised the Bahrain circuit at Sakhir |
The long-term future of the Bahrain Grand Prix has been secured after organisers signed an extended contract with F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone. The circuit at Sakhir was built at a cost of �80m, and hosted its first race in April 2004
The original deal was due to expire after 2008, and nearby Abu Dhabi is expected to host a race from 2009.
But it is understood Bahrain will remain on the Formula One calendar for a further five years until 2013.
"It was a real pleasure to bring Formula One to the Kingdom of Bahrain, and I'm pleased to confirm this relationship will continue into the future," said Ecclestone.
"Just three years ago Formula One - and motor sport in general - did not have any presence in the region.
"Bahrain has not only built a venue that is among the very best in the world and deservedly won acclaim for its Grand Prix, but has also built foundations for the current growth of interest and investment in Formula One across the Middle East."
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