Sakhir: Aston Martin Thor Team set a blistering pace in the opening practice of the Bapco Energies 8 Hours of Bahrain at Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) in Sakhir. The 2025 FIA World Endurance Championship's (WEC) highly anticipated season-finale has begun at 'The Home of Motorsport in the Middle East', with BIC welcoming fans on Friday and Saturday for two days of action-packed racing and family entertainment.
According to Bahrain News Agency, a second 90-minute WEC practice will take place later today, followed by a 60-minute session on Friday. Qualifying and Hyperpole will also occur on Friday, determining the grid for the Bapco Energies 8 Hours of Bahrain on Saturday, which will start at 2 pm. BIC will open its gates to the public at 10:30 am on both days, closing at 6:30 pm on Friday and 10 pm on Saturday. Race-goers on Saturday can participate in fan-engagement activities as part of the pre-race build-up.
From 11:45 am to 12:35 pm, fans can enjoy a pitwalk, witnessing the WEC teams preparing their cars. During this time, they can also meet drivers, take photos, and get memorabilia signed in the WEC autograph session between 11:50 am and 12:20 pm. These experiences are included in the ticket price.
Attendees will experience the open paddock, exclusive to BIC's annual WEC event, allowing fans to cross the BIC tunnel from the vending area to the paddock, home to the WEC's star drivers and teams. Tickets for the Le Mans-inspired event are still available, offering great value for a world championship event under the Federation Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA). Grandstand seats cost BD 5.5 for adults and BD 2.75 for children for both days and can be bought online or by calling the BIC Hotline.
Hospitality packages are also available, priced at BD 290 per person, excluding VAT, for the two days. Meanwhile, Caleb Sumich from Australia was quickest in the first practice session of the Porsche Carrera Cup Middle East's (PCCME) 2025/2026 season-opening round, part of the weekend's events. Sumich posted a fastest lap of 2:03.409, with Saud Al Saud and Alexandra Vateva following in the times. Sam Shahin and Mark J Thomas led the ProAm and Masters categories, respectively.
The PCCME field will return for a second practice session today. Fans have much to look forward to off the track, with entertainment attractions including activities and shows for children. BIC has set up an outdoor area for kids with live performances featuring popular tales and an outdoor play area with various attractions.
For extreme entertainment, stunt shows featuring Terry Grant, Lee Bowers, and FMX stunt bikers will captivate fans. A monster truck show will offer an exciting passenger experience. Roaming entertainers will create a vibrant atmosphere, and race enthusiasts can test their skills in simulators and speed-reaction games. For the full schedule of off-track entertainment, visit BIC's social media channels.
More information on the WEC season finale and other events at BIC is available at bahraingp.com or by calling the BIC Hotline.