Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) is to name the first corner of the BIC track after F1 legend Michael Schumacher, honouring the driver who won the inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix in 2004 as the race celebrates its tenth anniversary.
Schumacher, who won an unprecedented seven world championships during his career, still holds the BIC lap record and also has further strong connections with the track having been directly involved in the early stages of the BIC’s development, offering his own input into the design of the track, including the layout of turn one.
The decision to name the turn after him was taken in consultation with the family of the racer, who is still in a coma following a skiing accident. BIC, chairman Zayad Al Zayani, said: ‘With the support of his family, it is a great privilege to be able to honour arguably the greatest racing driver in the history of F1 and someone who the people of Bahrain hold close to their hearts.
‘From his first appearance at the BIC in 2004, he immediately became an inspiration for all those who love motorsport in the kingdom and it is therefore natural for us to recognise him in this way.’
‘The team at the BIC continues to offer Michael and his family its best wishes.’
Sabine Kehm, speaking on behalf of the Schumacher family, said: ‘Michael’s family would like to thank the Bahrain International Circuit for this gesture, acknowledging Michael’s achievements in Formula One and interest in the BIC circuit design.
‘We take it as recognition for his passion for motorsport. I am convinced Michael will love the idea and feel very honoured about having a BIC corner named after him.’
