Bahrain returns to old track layout

The Bahrain International circuit will revert to its original Grand Prix layout for the 2011 Formula One race, the organisers have announced. The usage of the "endurance track" is claimed to have been a one-off.

In 2010, the circuit used the longer "endurance layout" in an attempt to increase excitement for the spectators, but now the organisers already announced it will revert to its original layout.

"The use of the extended 'endurance track' was part of the celebrations which marked the diamond jubilee of the oldest and most prestigious racing series. It provided a unique opportunity to see the participating teams and drivers of the 24 strong grid navigate several new challenges and turns, marking the 7th Formula 1™ Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix as one of the most spectacular races yet seen at the Sakhir track. The 2011 Formula 1™Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix will therefore feature the original track layout, which has been used since Bahrain International Circuit’s inaugural race in 2004."

Commenting on the changes Shaikh Salman Bin Isa Al Khalifa, Acting Chief Executive Officer of Bahrain International Circuit, stated, "since its inception in 2004, Bahrain International Circuit has continually set new standards in the world of international motorsport."

"As the inaugural round of the Formula 1™ World Championship’s 60th anniversary season, it was important for us to celebrate this momentous occasion by doing something very unique and different. One of the major tasks we undertook to mark this milestone was implementing changes to our FIA approved track layout, giving the participating teams of the 2010 Formula 1™ Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix a completely new challenge."

"Both the Grand Prix and the 60th Anniversary celebrations, with 18 of the surviving 20 Formula One World Champions along with the cars that took them to their titles, will be remembered for a long time as a result."

While 2010 was deemed a success, the longer track layout could hardly be called exciting, and the reactions to it may have fueled the decision to revert to its more recognised layout.