Manama: Mark Thomas, Group Chief Executive Officer of Bapco Energies, the integrated energy company at the forefront of Bahrain's energy transition, extended congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, for the successful organisation of the 2025 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix. Thomas highlighted Bahrain's commendable track record in hosting international motorsport events at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), which have bolstered the Kingdom's global profile and reflect the leadership's support under His Majesty the King.
According to Bahrain News Agency, Bapco Energies' collaboration with BIC, known as 'the Home of Motorsport in the Middle East', forms part of a strategy to enhance global presence and support the national economy by sponsoring sports events that elevate Bahrain as a destination for sport and tourism. Since the inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix in 2004, Bapco Energies has been instrumental in shaping motorsport in the Middle East, providing financial and logistical support, including operating a dedicated fuel station at the Circuit.
The group is committed to nurturing Bahraini youth in motorsport, offering initiatives like local karting championships to develop national talent. As a principal partner of BIC, Bapco Energies pursues milestones that support energy sector development and sustainability in Bahrain through partnerships and a framework for integrated sustainability with the Circuit.
The Bahrain Grand Prix significantly impacts the national economy, attracting investment, generating quality job opportunities, boosting commerce and tourism, and contributing to economic diversification. Bapco Energies' international sports event partnerships reinforce Bahrain's global presence, positioning the Kingdom as a dynamic destination.
Bapco Energies also leads sustainability initiatives, collaborating with public and private entities to reduce carbon emissions. During the recent Bapco Energies Bahrain 8 Hours Endurance Race, an environmentally friendly ticket initiative was launched, with proceeds supporting mangrove planting in Bahrain to quadruple coverage by 2035.
Further, Bapco Energies announced its official partnership with the McLaren Formula 1 Team at the 2024 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and sustainable success, values at the core of Bapco Energies' operations.
Fatima bint Jaffar Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism and Chairperson of the Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority, noted an increase in tourism indicators during the 2025 Grand Prix, highlighting the opportunity to showcase Bahrain's strengths. She praised the public-private cooperation and Bapco Energies' role in supporting national events, noting its 90-year legacy in Bahrain's energy sector.
Al Sairafi emphasized enhancing tourism and sustainable development through partnerships, noting BIC's global standing and contribution to sports tourism infrastructure. She stressed the importance of a shared vision for sustainable tourism growth, aligned with the 2022-2026 Tourism Strategy and global interest in motorsport.
She also detailed efforts to boost tourism during the Formula 1 season through exceptional visitor experiences at both the Formula 1 Village at BIC and across Bahrain's tourism sites. Thomas echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the Bapco Energies and BIC partnership aligns with the vision of His Majesty the King and HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, promoting youth and sports.
Thomas concluded that the Bahrain Grand Prix serves as a platform for cultural exchange, highlighting Bahrain's achievements and contributing to the national economy while fostering a strong base of motorsport fans across the region.