The Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) has announced that it is to name the first corner of the track after F1 legend and 7 time world champion, Michael Schumacher. This happened following consultation with the seven-time world champion’s family.
“With the support of his family, it is a great privilege to be able to honour arguably the greatest racing driver in the history of F1 and someone whom the people of Bahrain hold close to their hearts,” said Zayed Al Zayani, BIC Chairman.
“From his first appearance at the BIC in 2004, he immediately became an inspiration for all those who love motorsport in the Kingdom and it is therefore natural for us to recognise him in this way. The team at the BIC continues to offer Michael and his family its best wishes.”
Schumacher’s manager, Sabine Kehm, added: “Michael’s family would like to thank the Bahrain International Circuit for this gesture, acknowledging Michael’s achievements in Formula One and interest in the BIC circuit design. We take it as a recognition for his passion for motorsport. I am convinced Michael will love the idea and feel very honoured about having a BIC corner named after him.”
The circuit is honouring Schumacher as part of its 10th anniversary, which will also be the venue’s first Formula One night race, the 2014 Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix on April 04-06, marking the second night race in the F1 Calendar.
Until today, Schumacher has yet to regain full consciousness from his coma and details remain sketchy on his current condition. The ‘Red Baron’ also won the first Bahrain race in 2004, the circuit he assisted to design. He still holds the lap record of 1:30.252 clocked in 2004.
[Source: http://www.formula1.com/]
