The Bahrain Grand Prix made its debut in 2004, becoming the first Formula 1 race ever held in the Middle East. Hosted at the newly built Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, it was a strategic milestone for F1’s push into new regions under Bernie Ecclestone's global expansion plan.

• The inaugural race was won by Michael Schumacher in dominant Ferrari form.

• The circuit’s debut earned widespread praise for its modern facilities and desert backdrop.

To celebrate the race’s 10th anniversary, the Bahrain GP became a full night race in 2014, similar to Singapore.

• The change created dramatic visuals and helped regulate track temperature.

• That year also hosted one of F1’s most praised races: the 2014 Hamilton vs Rosberg battle, dubbed “The Duel in the Desert.”