2025 F1 Bahrain Grand Prix: Ultimate Viewer's Guide, ESPN Schedule & Championship Insights
Complete guide to watching the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix on ESPN, including full weekend schedule, championship standings, and global F1 calendar highlights.
Weekend Schedule & Broadcast Details
Party in the Desert: F1 2025 Season Opener The Bahrain International Circuit kicks off the new Formula 1 season under lights, where reigning champion Max Verstappen seeks to continue his dominance after last year's victory.
Complete ESPN Broadcast Timeline (All times ET):
Friday, April 11
- 7:25 AM: Free Practice 1 (ESPNU)
- 10:55 AM: Free Practice 2 (ESPNU)
Saturday, April 12
- 8:25 AM: Free Practice 3 (ESPN2)
- 11:00 AM: Qualifying Session (ESPN2)
Sunday, April 13
- 10:55 AM: RACE DAY (ESPN2) [58 laps/308.2km]
Pro Tip: Stream all sessions on ESPN+ with additional commentary and onboard cameras.
Championship Context
Current Standings (Pre-Bahrain):
- Max Verstappen (Red Bull) - Defending 3x Champion
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari) - 2024 Runner-up
- Lando Norris (McLaren) - Most Improved 2024
Technical Updates to Watch:
- Red Bull's new floor design for better DRS efficiency
- Ferrari's revised sidepod inlets
- Mercedes' suspension geometry changes
2025 F1 Calendar Highlights
| Date | Grand Prix | Circuit Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Apr 20 | Saudi Arabia | Fastest street circuit (avg speed 250km/h) |
| May 4 | Miami | Hard-braking turns with marina views |
| May 25 | Monaco | Tightest circuit (78% full-throttle) |
| Nov 22 | Las Vegas | Saturday night race on The Strip |
| Dec 7 | Abu Dhabi | Hybrid track (twisty + fast sectors) |
Did You Know? Bahrain was the first Middle Eastern country to host F1 (2004) and remains the only night race that transitions from daylight to darkness.
Enhanced Viewing Options
- ESPN F1 Hub: Live timing, driver trackers & radio comms
- Sky Sports Feed: Available via ESPN with UK commentary
- F1 TV Pro: Multi-screen views & historic race library
"The Bahrain GP sets the tone for the season - teams bring their winter developments to the ultimate test under race conditions," says F1 tech analyst Sam Collins.
Iraq
17:00 International, Friendly International
17:00
Hong Kong
Thailand
21:00 International, Friendly International
21:00
Fiji
Malaysia
21:00 International, Friendly International
21:00
Singapore
Chad
21:00 Africa, CAF WC Qualification, Round 7
21:00
Ghana
Mauritius
22:00 Africa, CAF WC Qualification, Round 7
22:00
Cape Verde
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