Motorsport: New F1 track in Bahrain

Bahrain launched its new Formula One motor-racing circuit yesterday and officials said work would begin next month, in time for the FIA world championship in 2004.

More than US$150 million ($314 million) will be spent on the 5.5km circuit outside the city of Manama in the south of the country.

The multi-purpose venue will have six layouts, including a flat oval for testing and a 1.2km drag strip.