MARK Thomas, group chief executive of Bapco Energies – the integrated company leading the energy transition in Bahrain – extended his warmest congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad and to His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, on the successful hosting of the 2025 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.
Reflecting on the remarkable occasion, Thomas commended the kingdom’s long-standing success in Formula 1 – a legacy that began in 2004 and continues to position Bahrain as a pioneer in motorsport across the Middle East. Bahrain’s ability to host world-class racing events at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) stands as a testament to the unwavering support of its visionary leadership, marking a distinguished milestone in the nation’s illustrious path of progress and prominence on the global stage.
The partnership between Bapco Energies and the BIC – home of motorsport in the Middle East – serves as a cornerstone of the group’s strategy to amplify its global influence while driving forward national economic ambitions with unwavering commitment. By sponsoring and enabling major sporting events, Bapco Energies contributes to positioning Bahrain as a world-class destination for sport and tourism.
Since the inaugural race in 2004, Bapco Energies has played a pioneering role in shaping the future of motorsport in the region. From financial and logistical support to the operation of a dedicated Bapco service station at the BIC since its inception, the group’s contributions have helped fuel the popularity of the Bahrain Grand Prix, transforming it into an international tourism magnet and a source of national pride.
Bapco Energies also plays a significant role in cultivating local talent. Through its ongoing support for karting and grassroots motorsport events, the group helps Bahraini youth – both drivers and engineers – advance and thrive within the global motorsport ecosystem. This reflects Bapco Energies’ broader commitment to empowering the next generation of innovators and champions.
As a principal sponsor of the BIC, Bapco Energies continues to build on this legacy -leveraging its broad partnerships to support energy sector development and promote sustainability. The group’s long-term approach with BIC is guided by a structured framework that aligns with Bahrain’s economic priorities and aims to deliver shared success across industries.
The Bahrain Grand Prix stands today as a cornerstone of the national economy. It attracts global investors, creates high-value job opportunities, stimulates the tourism sector, and energises commercial activity across the kingdom. For Bapco Energies, this event represents a key platform to promote Bahrain’s economic resilience and reinforce its reputation as a dynamic hub in the region.
Moreover, Bapco Energies’ support for high-profile international events places Bahrain in the living rooms of millions of viewers around the world. These platforms significantly enhance the kingdom’s visibility on the global stage, reinforcing its image as a vibrant, forward-looking nation.
Bapco Energies also leads by example in sustainability – demonstrating its commitment to climate action through tangible initiatives launched at major motorsport events. During the recent Bapco Energies Bahrain 8 Hours Endurance Race, part of the FIA World Endurance Championship, the group partnered with public and private stakeholders to reduce race-related carbon emissions and launched a Green Ticket initiative. For every ticket sold, a portion of proceeds – matched by Bapco Energies – is donated to support mangrove tree planting efforts, directly contributing to Bahrain’s national goal of quadrupling mangrove coverage by 2035.
In December 2024, Bapco Energies deepened its motorsport footprint by announcing its official partnership with the McLaren Formula 1 Team during the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit. This strategic collaboration reflects shared values of innovation, performance, and sustainable growth – values that resonate across Bapco Energies’ operations and those of its subsidiaries.
Meanwhile, Tourism Minister and Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) chairperson Fatima Al Sairafi said that Bahrain witnessed a rise in tourism indicators, specifically hotel occupancy rates and average length of stay, in coinciding with the 2025 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix Formula 1 race. The event attracts top business leaders and investors from around the world, offering a unique opportunity to showcase Bahrain’s strengths and investment potential.
The minister praised the strong collaboration between the public and private sectors, which plays a vital role in the success of major events. She highlighted the role of Bapco Energies for its support of various national events. Bapco Energies, a leading national brand, reflects a legacy of over 90 years in Bahrain’s energy sector.
Al Sairafi stated that such partnerships contribute to an integrated approach that strengthens the tourism sector, positively impacting sustainable development and the national economy. She emphasised that the BIC is one of the most prominent and distinguished racing tracks in the world, and that long-standing partnerships with key private sector institutions like Bapco Energies spanning over two decades have enhanced the global standing of the circuit and enriched visitor experiences through continuous development, positioning it as a key part of Bahrain’s sports tourism infrastructure.
She also stressed the importance of developing a shared vision for tourism, with clear and specific goals to ensure sustainable growth and enhance the sector’s competitiveness and appeal. This aligns with the Tourism Strategy 2022-2026, especially in light of the growing global fanbase for motorsport and the increasing number of international visitors.
The minister highlighted the ongoing efforts by the BTEA to boost tourism during the Formula 1 season, through integrated efforts in cooperation with the private sector to offer exceptional visitor experiences, whether within the Formula 1 Village at the BIC or across various tourism facilities and heritage sites. The aim is to provide an ideal and holistic tourism experience that encourages tourists to return to Bahrain in other seasons as well.
Thomas affirmed that the enduring partnership between Bapco Energies and the BIC is a testament to the vision of His Majesty and the guidance of HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The collaboration aligns with national priorities to elevate youth and sports, promote wellness, and unite communities through meaningful, high-impact events.
He further noted that Bapco Energies’ sponsorship of events at BIC has significantly raised its brand profile globally while amplifying awareness of the group’s mission and that of its subsidiaries. This partnership forms part of a broader national effort to stimulate investment, diversify income sources, and sustain economic growth.
“The Bahrain Grand Prix is more than a race - it is a celebration of cultural exchange and shared achievement,” Thomas stated. “It offers the world a window into Bahrain’s heritage, progress, and pioneering spirit, while helping us build a broad and passionate base of motorsport enthusiasts across the kingdom and the region.”
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