Bahrain 'almost oval' an option for F1

Multiple layouts of the Bahrain International Circuit could be used to bolster the 2020 Formula 1 calendar says Ross Brawn.

Formula 1 managing director motorsport, Brawn has revealed the sport is considering the 'oval' layout of the Bahrain Grand Prix venue for a second race in 2020 - double-headers set to become commonplace on the 2020 calendar with both Silverstone and the Red Bull Ring entering into similar agreements.

“One of the nice attractions of Bahrain is it has many configurations, so we could go to Bahrain and race on two different tracks there,” Brawn told Formula1.com. “There’s a nice sort of almost oval track that would be quite exciting, and all the layouts have a Grade 1 licence with the FIA, so that is an option in the pocket."

The 'oval' layout, officially known as the 'Outer Circuit' deviates from the grand prix circuit on the exit of turn four, after the first DRS zone. Turning left after the hairpin right, the track follows a sweeping right-hander before a tight left-right chicane joins the more familiar at turn-13, although on this layout, the corner is turn-9.

Using multiple layouts may be a good idea to differentiate races on paper, but with minimal time to make the changes for back-to-back races, Brawn acknowledged the reality could be more difficult

He added: “Using two configurations involves quite a lot of work for the riggers – for example the timing needs setting up for two tracks so you need plenty of notice. That’s something we have to take into account.”

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