F1 is all set to kick things up a notch in the penultimate race of the 2020 Championship season. For the second event in Bahrain – the Sakhir Grand Prix, F1 will hold the race on a slightly unconventional track layout.

In an official announcement, F1 confirmed the use of the outer layout of the Sakhir International Circuit, a design that’s almost oval. Furthermore, the Sakhir GP will be an 87-lap race to cover the minimum distance of 305 km.

Smaller track, more laps for the second F1 race in Bahrain

Furthermore, the track is set to shatter qualifying lap times with one of the shortest times in F1 history. According to F1, a lap around the revised circuit could add up to just under 55 seconds.

“We are excited to announce the outer circuit as the format for the Sakhir Grand Prix,” said F1 managing director, Ross Brawn.

“And want to thank our partners at the Bahrain International Circuit for their continued support,”

“We assessed a number of options for the alternative circuit layout”

“And concluded the outer circuit will provide the best alternative and will provide a new challenge for all the teams”

“And entertain all our fans with high speeds and fast lap times.”

With minimal corners, the team that could benefit greatly from the modified track is Mercedes. With an engine that’s currently a class above the rest, Mercedes may end up lapping the entire field over the course of the Grand Prix.

Sadly, the long straights also mean nothing short of a nightmare for Ferrari. With the SF1000’s poor straight-line speed and mediocre performance, the Scuderia has a mountain to climb in trying to score meaningful points.

Bahrain will mark the third time F1 returns to the same circuit after a race to hold a Grand Prix at the same venue. Traditionally, the Sakhir track hasn’t disappointed fans and lives up to its potential of a racing spectacle at night.

Following the Sakhir Grand Prix, F1 will head to Abu Dhabi to conclude a 17 race Championship season.

The Sakhir Grand Prix is set for December 4-6.