Formula 1 Bahrain GP: UK start time, how to watch, how much, highlights channel

The eagerly-anticipated Formula 1 Bahrain GP is right around the corner, so we’re bringing you everything you need to know, including the UK start time.

On Sunday, March 20, the best drivers on the planet will battle it out at the Bahrain International Circuit. After months of waiting, the season is finally here. After the drama of the last campaign, F1 enthusiasts are keen to see how this season unfolds.

YouTube video

Last year, Max Verstappen won his inaugural world title after a close-fought race with Lewis Hamilton. The Brit led for the majority of the contest, but his rival overtook him on the final lap in one of the most dramatic moments in F1 history. Verstappen’s crowning glory, although admittedly epic, received massive backlash.

The former champion and his team argued that the only reason the Belgian had won was because of Michael Masi’s refereeing decisions. However, this new animosity will add even more spice to the upcoming season. But fans will be disappointed to hear the news that Sebastian Vettel is out of the event.

The four-time world champion is currently recovering after testing positive for Covid-19. This is only the second race he’s missed since 2007. Nico Hülkenberg is set to fill his place. The Aston Martin reserve hasn’t competed since 2020, but he’ll hope to make his mark in Bahrain.

We can’t wait for this season’s intense racing and incredible moments. And we’re here to provide you with all the information you need to enjoy every second of the Bahrain Grand Prix.

Read: Carlos Sainz fires back at Mercedes after Ferrari F1 testing comments.

YouTube video

Formula 1 Bahrain GP UK start time

Due to the time difference, fans can settle down to enjoy a lovely afternoon’s racing. The first practice is scheduled to commence at noon on Friday, March 18, with the second practice at 3 pm. Both sessions will take place over an hour-long period.

The final practice runs occur the following day at 1 pm, with qualifying going down two hours later at 3 pm. Brits can then catch the main event at 3 pm on March 20.

How to watch the Formula 1 Bahrain GP

The race is available to watch live on . The dedicated channel has borderline-exclusive live television rights in the UK for this season and the foreseeable future.

The broadcast will begin at 2 pm on Saturday, March 19, to give the fans all the build-up coverage. Their programme for the big one starts at 1:30 pm the following day.

How much will it cost to watch the Formula 1 Bahrain GP?

The race is not taking place on PPV, but a subscription is needed if you want to tune in to see all the action unfold. You can sign up to Sky’s F1 channel for £18 a month or commit to all their sporting content for £25 per month. Alternatively, you can purchase day, week or monthly passes via Now TV.

The streaming network has access to all the Sky Sports channels, which is a perfect option for someone who doesn’t want to commit to a regular monthly payment.

Where can I watch the Formula 1 Bahrain GP highlights?

Those who don’t want to part with their hard-earned cash or can’t watch the racing live can catch the extended highlights later in the day. This season, Channel 4 will provide coverage of all the best bits for free on terrestrial TV. Their programme begins at 7:30 pm on March 19 and will cover the qualifying session.

They’ll be back the following day at the same time to focus on the race that we’re all looking forward to.

This campaign looks likely to provide thrills and spills throughout the year, and we can’t wait for it to get underway.

Featured image credit: Getty