A new world-class racing school aimed at discovering Bahrain’s next big talent on the track has opened at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC).
The prestigious Winfield Racing School, a French institution known for developing racing stars, yesterday inaugurated its first branch in the Middle East at the BIC.
“Bahrain has several talented go-karters that lack the path into the F1,” said BIC chief commercial officer Sherif Al Mahdy. “We wanted to open a school to give young Bahrainis that chance, and we considered a few, but we decided on Winfield because only the best works for us.”
Established in 1964 at Magny-Cours and later at Circuit Paul Ricard, the school has trained more than 30 F1 drivers throughout its history, 10 of whom have gone on to win F1 championships, including Damon Hill, Jacques Laffite and Jean Alesi.
Winfield managing director Frederic Garcia said the school is excited to share its expertise with aspiring racers across the region.
Some of the gear and equipment that will be available at the school
“We have always wanted to find a wide array of talent from different countries, not just Europe,” he said.
“However, we realised that we cannot find any if we do not leave Europe, and once the BIC approached us, we knew what we had to do.
“The circuit offers world class facilities, and it will give us the best possible opportunities to develop potential F1 drivers from Bahrain and across the region. We want to promote Middle-Eastern talent and boost their careers.”
Winfield chief performing officer Anne-Charlotte Remy highlighted the F4 Scholarship Programme to boost the off-track skills for boys as well as the Girls on Track initiative to encourage female drivers.
“We also emphasise the importance of educating them on factors such as how to speak during interviews, and how to manage and grow their social media channels,” she said.
“The courses are open to drivers as young as 15, and they will always start off with professionally trained instructors.”
For more information on courses and fees, visit winfieldracingschool.com.
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