Where to watch the action at Sakhir. The best grandstands tickets and hospitality suites at the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix
2026 Bahrain GP Tickets / F1 Experiences / Manama Hotels / Bahrain GP Facebook group
- The 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix is scheduled for April 10-12
- This post contains affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase after clicking on one of these links
Bahrain produces exciting racing under lights and with a low spectator capacity of approximately 30,000 fans, the trackside experience is relaxed and well organized. Choosing where to sit at Sakhir is easier than at most circuits; there’s just five different grandstands available. Prices remain relatively affordable, despite small price increases over the past few years. All grandstands are covered, but this is less of a factor now that most of the action in Bahrain happens at night, when temperatures are cooler.
Where to Buy Bahrain F1 Tickets?
- We recommend buying your tickets for the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix from our trusted supplier, Grand Prix Tickets (GPT), who have been selling F1 tickets since 1997. Tickets are official and come direct from the race promoter.
- F1 Experiences Ticket Packages are also recommended in Bahrain. Choose from grandstand or hospitality packages with exclusive trackside activities. Access to premium hospitality in the Formula 1 Paddock Club is now on sale. Accommodation and circuit transfers can also be added to your booking.
- Click the buttons below to check current prices & availability
Bahrain Grand Prix Tickets – Need to Know
- All grandstands at Bahrain International Circuit are covered. There is no General Admission in Bahrain.
- Seating is reserved on all three days of the event.
- Tickets are sold for 3 days, with the exception of the Beyon Grandstand, where you can also buy Friday tickets and Saturday + Sunday tickets.
- All grandstands offer big TV screen viewing
- Discounted tickets for children aged 3-12 are available, priced at 50% of the regular adult price. Children aged 2 or under get free entrance when accompanied by an adult with a valid ticket.
Official Ticket Packages from F1 Experiences
We also recommend F1 Experiences Ticket Packages at the 2026 Bahrain Grand Prix. 4-day packages start from $769 USD. Choose from Starter, Hero or Trophy ticket packages with grandstand seating and exciting trackside activities, or upgrade to a choice of trackside hospitality suites. The following hospitality packages are offered in Bahrain:
- The Dome by F1 Experiences (3-Days): If you like to enjoy an alcoholic beverage while watching the action, The Dome by F1 Experiences offers lite bites with an open bar and 2 complimentary drink tickets, as well as a reserved seat in the Dome grandstand on the Main Straight with views of the final corner. 3-day access from $1,157 USD.
- Champions Club by F1 Experiences (3-Days): All-inclusive premium hospitality in the Beyon Grandstand with guided tour of the F1 Paddock and guest appearances. 3-day access from $3,519 USD.
- Formula 1 Paddock Club (3-Days): The ultimate in F1 hospitality offers views of the pit lane and starting grid, seated gourmet meals, open bars, daily pit lane walks and driver appearances, as well as access to the Paddock Club Oasis in the middle of the track! 3-day access from $7,395 USD.
- Legend Ticket Packages (3-Days): Full Paddock Club hospitality and benefits, plus one-day VIP access pass to the F1 Paddock and priority access to the post-race podium ceremony. 3-day access from $10,915 USD.
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Main Grandstand
As at most circuits, tickets in the Main Grandstand (YouTube video) opposite the pits are the most expensive on offer at Sakhir. These are great for pits action, pre-race build up, the start and finish, but you won’t see much in the way of passing or other on-track action (see video above from the Main Grandstand). One advantage of the Main Grandstand in Bahrain is that the main fanzone is located directly behind. The main circuit gates and parking areas are also nearby.
The Main Grandstand is separated into two tiers, with the lower tier having 23 sections (A1 to G5) and the upper tier having 22 sections (A5 to G8). Sections A1 (lower tier) and A5 (upper tier) are at one end of the grandstand, closer to the final turn, pit entry and podium. At the other end are sections G4 (lower tier) and G8 (upper tier), which are located opposite the pit exit and closer to Turn 1 (Main Grandstand Map). Sections E1 (lower) and E5 (higher) are closest to the start-finish line and front of the starting grid. The best sections for watching the action amongst the leading teams are nearer the pit entrance, namely A2-A4 and B1-B3 (lower tier) and A6-A7 and B4-B6 (upper tier).
Batelco Grandstand
The next most expensive tickets are in the Batelco Grandstand (previously known as Beyon ). Batelco offers great views of Turns 7-10 (YouTube video) and with lots of unobstructed views, Batelco is also best for amateur F1 photographers. If you want to meet drivers in Bahrain, this is the grandstand to choose because it provides access to the inner part of the circuit, near the pits and F1 Paddock. If you buy tickets for Batelco, you will have a much better chance of meeting the drivers as they arrive and depart the circuit.
The single-tier Batelco Grandstand is divided into 14 sections, with A1 on the far left facing the track (closer to Turn 10) and D4 on the far left (closer to Turn 11). Seats in lower numbered sections are popular due to views of Turn 10, a popular overtaking spot at the circuit. Seats in the other end of the Batelco grandstand (D4) are also popular due to views across to Turn 8. Whilst the grandstand is set back from the track somewhat, most seats here do offer very good views of large sections of the track. (Batelco Grandstand Seating Map.)
Turn 1 Grandstand
The Turn 1 grandstand is located on the outside of the approach to the first corner at Bahrain International Circuit, and you will also get a more distant view of the cars going through Turns 2-3. The Turn 1 grandstand (YouTube video) offers excellent views of the first turn, which is where lots of the overtaking action happens in Bahrain. One advantage of the Turn 1 Grandstand is that it is close to the main Fan Zone behind the Main Grandstand, which is located about 10 minutes’ walk away.
The single-tier Turn 1 Grandstand is separated into 15 sections, most of a uniform size – though the sections at each end are smaller. Numbering is from section 1A (closer to the pit exit) through to section 1S, which faces the apex of Turn 1. The best seats in the Turn 1 Grandstand are in the sections closer to Turn 1. (Turn 1 Grandstand Seating Map)
University Grandstand
University is comprised of three separate grandstands on the outside of the circuit overlooking Turns 2 and 3, and is the best choice for fans on a budget. Definitely, the views are better than in the similarly priced Victory Grandstand. In fact, we’d argue that the views are actually better in the cheaper University grandstands than in the Turn 1 grandstand.
All three single-tier University Grandstands have six sections, with University 1 closest to the exit of Turn 1, University 2 overlooking Turn 2 and University 3 overlooking Turn 3. University 1 (1A to 1F) is the pick of the grandstands here (YouTube video), as it has the best views of Turn 1. The lowered numbered sections within University 1 (1A and 1B) have the best views. Nevertheless, views are also decent from University 2 and University 3, and the price for these grandstands is unbeatable. (University Grandstand Seating Map)
Victory Grandstand
Finally, the Victory Grandstands are another good budget option with two grandstands (each with their own big screen) located on the final few corners of the circuit. Victory 1 grandstand offers views of Turns 11-12, whilst Victory 2 (YouTube video) offers views of the final corner. Victory 2 is definitely the better choice here! The best sections in Victory 2E and 2F have views of the final corner and straight down the start-finish straight. (Victory Grandstands Seating Map.)
One downside of the Victory Grandstands is that they are some distance from all the activities in the fan zone, which is located behind the Main Grandstand. Whilst internal shuttle buses are available, it’s more hassle to get between these grandstands and the fan zone. A small concessions area is located behind the Victory grandstands, however.
Where do they usually put the stage ? Concerts
Behind the Main Grandstand.
Hello
What are the best seats to see the podium?
Hi Aisha, you’ll need seats in the Main Grandstand to see the podium ceremony.
As the Bahrain GP has not gone ahead how does someone who has purchased get the refund as has been promised?
Yes, Mark you should be entitled to a full refund if you purchased direct from the circuit or from an authorised reseller of tickets. However, as the race has only been postponed at this stage, you may have several options: keep the ticket for a new 2020 date, keep the ticket for 2021 or get a full refund now. Contact the company you purchased from to get your options.
Are children allowed to witness the grand spectacle…
I got a full refund from the promoter. They communicate clearly what will happen. Then they act.
Not sure about other purchase sources.
Do you need to vaccinated in Bahrain or is fully vaccinated in the UAE also ok to get excess to the F1
My understanding is that you should still be able to attend if you are fully vaccinated from another country such as UAE. But you will need to download the app we mentioned so you have a green badge to show in order to get access to the circuit.
Hi!! Since I’m new in Bahrain i need to ask… when you say “fully vaccinated” you mean both vaccines must have be done, or if I manage to have only one, it’s ok?
Unfortunately, the entry restrictions say you can only attend if you had the second dose of the vaccine at least two weeks earlier.
hello,
i am vaccinated in UAE but seems that wont let me go to watch the F1 in Bahrain.
any idea how we can be sure about it?
Hello, are there different ticket options or is the 100 BD standard for all tickets
Standard ticket price this year. Only Main Grandstand and Turn 1 Grandstand for 100 BD
Hi there!
Do you recommend the main grandstand or the turn one? And why if i may ask
Hello, I would choose Turn 1 as you get to see more overtakes and on-track action. But that’s a personal choice. The Main Grandstand is also good for a first time visitor, as you can see all the pits action, plus the race build up, start and podium ceremony.
Is the ticket good for 1 day only? What are the perks included in the ticket?
Most tickets are sold for 3 days. But you can buy cheaper access for just Friday, or Saturday/Sunday. Perks include a pit lane walk on Thursday and concerts on Friday and Saturday night in the fanzone.
Is the 3 day ticket worth it? are times of activities etc published somewhere?
Yes, it’s worth going for all 3 days. For example, on Friday night there are some big DJs performing. You can see the full on-track schedule here: https://gpdestinations.com/trackside-bahrain-grand-prix/
Hi, Do you know if alcohol allowed there?
Alcohol is not available for general sale in the fanzone. It is available in the hospitality areas, and you can purchase a separate ticket to a hospitality tent that does serve alcohol – but it’s not cheap.
My child is 14 years old ..Does he have a special price??
Sadly not. Tickets are cheaper by 50% only for children aged 3-12 years old.
How are you able to attend the pitlane walk on the thursday? do you just turn up with your tickets?
Yes that’s the idea. I assume there will be signage indicating where you need to go to take part in the pit lane walk
Do you know when the cheaper grandstand tickets for 2023 will be released?
Sorry not sure. The current early bird prices apply until the end of the year, so perhaps the next round of tickets will go on sale in January. But that’s just a guess, it could be sooner.
So back in March I bought the tickets for the 2023 race, using the earl bird 30% discount. I got two University Grandstand tickets.
I just received the below email from a Bahrain circuit rep:
Kindly note that the management of Bahrain International Circuit took a decision to cancel the University Grandstand for the 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix and since you purchased your tickets already for the University Grandstand during the 30% early bird discount, we are offering you a 30% discount on the 2023 Bahrain Grand Prix tickets should you want to change or upgrade your tickets to another stand, below you’ll find the prices of the tickets…
So apparently there will be no University Grandstand for 2023, which is very very disappointing.
I’m waiting for an answer from them on how to re-book the tickets somewhere else.
Thanks for the information Paolo, I’ll update the post. Good luck choosing another grandstand (Turn 1 or Main I would go for)
Ah that’s a shame. I’m in Bahrain that weekend but can only go to Sunday, so I’ll only go if I can get the cheaper tickets. Hopefully Victory will be available. Considering the others have already sold out (on the F1 site they have anyway), you’d think they’d maximise capacity…
Just heard to news about the University Grandstand when I went to buy the tickets. Very, very disappointing! Anyone who knows the track, knows that Uni Grandstand is best for the action. Take for example the 2022 race – hardly an empty seat and 95% of those there were the diehards. Could management provide a clear justification to a long-time and regular race goer? Without clear justification for such a decision, may be beginning of the end for many.
It’s pretty disappointing and I don’t know the reason why this grandstand would be removed from the offer, especially when Bahrain is now attracting larger numbers of spectators.
Thank you for the very helpful information. I am considering a seat in sector S of the Turn 1 as shown in the video. Is the screen as hard to see in real life as it is in that video? And would you suggest booking a ticket from the circuit’s website or F1’s?
I guess the screen wasn’t too big, and not that close. But the on-track view was really good. If you want to choose a specific section/seat, you need to book through the circuit. Otherwise, I recommend buying through our ticket shop – we also have official tickets and they are cheaper than the F1 Tickets site.
Is victory 2 better than victory 1?
Yes, in my opinion. I sat in both grandstands this year. Victory 2 is closer to the last corner and you can see down the straight.
Hello !
Thank you so much for all these infos, it’s really helpful.
Do we know if pre-season testing will be open to the public this year? I’m considering going for 10 days to attend the testing + the GP.
Thanks a lot.
Yes, pre-season testing in Bahrain is expected to be open to the public, but details haven’t yet been announced and tickets are not yet on sale. Dates are confirmed though, from February 23-25. Join our mailing list (and check the box for Bahrain) – we will send subscribers more information when available.
Hello Andrew!
I want to buy F1 tickets as a Christmas gift but I am not sure what grandstand to choose. I was between the main grandstand and the Batelco but open to any of them, I want to make sure that I choose great tickets. I also checked the circuits website and the Batelco website there were 3 options, adult, adult friday, adult sat&sun and just wanted to make sure the adult ticket means for all 3 days? Appreciate the help!
Hello, I would choose the Main or Turn 1 grandstand (Victory is ok but it’s too far from the Fanzone, in my opinion). Batelco is not bad, but the views are quite distant. All tickets are for 3 days, apart from Batelco, which offers some more options. Yes, the Adult ticket in the Batelco (most expensive one) is for 3 days.
Hi. We are looking to come to Bahrain for the first time for the F1. We want to sit in Turn 1 grandstand. Do you have any recommendations on where to sit? High or close to the track etc? Thank you
Hi Joanna, normally high is better so you can see above the catch fencing. I think the sectors closer to Turn 1 are better (P,R,S)
I’m looking to get tickets for this year, and I see there is actually an option to buy tickets for the University Grandstand. This seems to be going against the news people had in November/ December. Does anyone know if this means the circuit have changed their mind and the University Grandstand is indeed going to be open now?
Yes, the University grandstand is now on sale. I guess the circuit changed it’s mind, maybe after lots of people complained. We don’t have tickets in our shop, but you can buy direct via the circuit
How can I select seats or section within same grandstand when buying ticket?
You can do this if you purchase via the circuit. With our tickets, you can make a request for a particular section, but cannot choose specific seats
I noticed you mentioned best University grandstand tickets are at the top of grandstand 2 wondering what makes it better than 1 since that one is closer to turn 1, thanks
I sat in all of the grandstands last year in Bahrain, with the exception of University. I’m guessing that someone gave me this advice about the top of University 2 being best. I think it is more based on the fact that you can also see across to the infield section. In general, University 1 is too far away from Turn 1 anyway for a good view
Hi, I’m hoping to attend the 2025 Bahrain GP and will be buying from the circuit’s official website. Are the 3 day tickets there inclusive of the pit walk on Thursday? or is that only with purchases of f1 experiences?
Yes anyone who buys a 3-day ticket can attend the pit lane walk on Thursday, regardless of where you purchase. F1 Experiences runs a separate pit lane walk on Thursday
Do you get pit walk access on thursday if you purchase 3 day grandstand tickets for Bahrain 2025 race?
Yes, you do
Hey, thanks a lot for these articles.
Was reading through and was wondering why you prefer the university grandstand over the turn1 grandstand?
Thanks, once again
I should state that I did personally sit in most grandstands at the 2022 Bahrain GP, including Turn 1. But not University. I think the views are good in Turn 1, depending on where you are, but reviews/feedback suggest the University grandstand offers similar or even better views at a more affordable price point