Organizers at the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC), which is due to host the 2010 season opener on March 13, have revealed a number of changes to the track for this year's race which sees the circuit extended from 3.362 miles circuit to 3.914 miles.

While the desert circuit will retain its unique character, the new loop will sweep left as the cars accelerate out of the existing Turn 4 and take them into a fast flowing right-hander before a sequence of five bends brings them back towards the original circuit. From here they will accelerate through a left-right kink before a hairpin brings them back on to the existing circuit, adding eight new corners to what is already one of the drivers' favourite venues.

"The loop was completed in 2006 as part of the built-in evolution of the venue for competitors and fans," said Zayed R. Alzayani, Chairman of the Bahrain International Circuit. "We gave it its debut with the inaugural 24 Hour Race of Bahrain that same year where it proved extremely successful, and with the changes to the regulations, the teams and the driver line-ups in Formula One this year it is the perfect time to evolve the circuit with this new challenge and new overtaking opportunities."

"The BIC was built to set new standards for international motor sport and Formula One is the pinnacle," added Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, Acting CEO of the Bahrain International Circuit. "As the sport evolves and grows it is entirely fitting that we use our unique geography and circuit design to grow with it and deliver the best racing and entertainment that we can."