Grapevine: Sauber Make History in Bahrain

The Sauber-Petronas team made history on Thursday when they became the first Formula One team to run a Grand Prix car in Bahrain.

Sauber's test driver Neel Jani launched the build-up to April's inaugural Bahrain Grand Prix, by driving on the streets of the Kingdom's capital city Manama. The 20 year-old Swiss reached speeds of just under 300 km/h in his C22 car in front of a crowd of 20,000 motorsport fans.

"I'm very proud that I was the very first to drive a Formula One car in the Middle East and to show to the enthusiastic citizens what Formula One is all about," said Jani. "It's also the first time that I have 'legally' jumped a red light!

"Seriously though, I really enjoyed the opportunity to give the people of Bahrain a feeling of the passion, speed and sound that exist within this sport. I also had the chance to visit the Bahrain International Circuit and I'm very impressed by this ultra-modern facility. The race will certainly be a big challenge and I can't wait to see it."

Bahrain will host the first ever Grand Prix in the Middle East on April 4.

"Formula One has a massive following and this year Bahrain will become a member of an extremely exclusive club by hosting the third round of the 18 races FIA Formula One World Championship," said the Chairman of Bahrain International Circuit, Shaikh Fawaz bin Mohammed Al Khalifa.

"Those attending the race in April will experience the thrilling atmosphere of the World Championship at close quarters."