In what will come as a pleasant surprise to formula one fans in the middle east , Bahrain which had a formula one contract till 2008 to host races got a five year extension in its contract which means that it will hold formula one racs atleast till 2013. The races will be held at the Sakhir circuit which made its racing debut in 2004 . Abu Dhabi considered to be Bahrain’s main competitor in the middle east region is also expected to host a formula one race in 2009.

“It was a real pleasure to bring Formula One to the Kingdom of Bahrain, and I’m pleased to confirm this relationship will continue into the future,” “Just three years ago Formula One - and motor sport in general - did not have any presence in the region. “Bahrain has not only built a venue that is among the very best in the world and deservedly won acclaim for its Grand Prix, but has also built foundations for the current growth of interest and investment in Formula One across the Middle East.”

- FIA Chief Bernie Ecclestone