Why the Formula 1 test in Bahrain is going to be an absolute war of attrition

You may remember this. A few years ago, the Grands Prix in the Middle East were moved to a later slot on the F1 calendar to avoid overlapping with Ramadan. During this fasting period, Muslims are not allowed to eat or drink during daylight hours—far from ideal if you’re working at the circuit all day.

However, the second test week in Bahrain in 2026 also falls during Ramadan, which starts on Tuesday. Marshals and other staff present on and around the circuit therefore cannot eat or drink while they are working hard for Formula 1.

The men and women stationed along the track also wear protective gear, for example to be able to fight a fire. That’s tough when you can’t have a drink during the day.

For fans and media visiting the circuit in the coming days, adjustments will be needed as well. In Bahrain, many shops and restaurants are closed during the day. A special permit is required to open. Alcohol—which is already difficult to obtain—is not sold in hotels during Ramadan.

The Formula 1 teams will be barely affected by these inconveniences. They all employ their own chefs, who ensure that their staff and drivers can still eat and drink.