2024 Formula 1 Season to Kick Off with Historic Night Race in Bahrain
As the world of motorsports eagerly anticipates, the 2024 Formula 1 season is slated to commence on March 2, breaking new ground with a night race in Bahrain. This season is set to surpass previous years with an unprecedented 24-race calendar, marking an increase from the 22 races witnessed in 2023. Not only will there be more races, but the season itself extends further, spanning from February to December, a significant stretch from the former March to November window.
Preparations for this exhilarating season begin with pre-season testing at the Bahrain International Circuit from February 21-23, setting the stage for the opening race at the same venue. Bahrain has been the traditional curtain-raiser for the Formula 1 season since 2021. However, in a shift from the norm, the 2024 opener will be conducted on a Saturday night to accommodate the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. During this period, Sundays are observed as a day of feasting after a week of fasting from sunrise to sunset by nearly two billion Muslims globally.
In a series of firsts, the subsequent race in Saudi Arabia and a later event in Las Vegas are also scheduled for Saturdays, marking three of the 24 races to deviate from the typical Sunday showdown. This adjustment caters to various cultural and logistical considerations, adding a unique twist to the racing calendar.
The much-anticipated Chinese Grand Prix is poised to make a comeback in Shanghai on April 21, after a hiatus since 2019 due to pandemic-related restrictions. While the calendar does not introduce any new venues this year, it does feature the extension of the Belgian Grand Prix at the iconic Spa-Francorchamps circuit, following speculative talks of a potential race in South Africa.
Traditions hold strong with the British Grand Prix, which retains its usual spot on July 7 at the historic Silverstone circuit. The season will wrap up with the customary finale at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi on December 8, concluding what promises to be a thrilling and record-setting year in Formula 1 racing.
The 2024 season not only brings more races and a longer duration but also introduces changes and returns that are sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. With new scheduling arrangements and the return of beloved circuits, the Formula 1 world is buzzing with excitement for what is shaping up to be one of the most dynamic seasons in the sport’s history. Fans, teams, and drivers alike are gearing up for a year full of speed, innovation, and world-class competition as the pinnacle of motorsport continues to evolve and excite.