Ticket sales for 2008 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix are up 65 per cent on the same time last year, the Bahrain International Circuit (BIC) has announced.

'There is an obvious growing interest in the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix this year and it could not have happened without the phenomenal success that we saw last year,' said BIC commercial director Steven Umfreville.

'Last year saw a sell-out crowd of 90,000 people at the race weekend.

'With sales, at this stage, already up by 65 per cent, this would only increase as the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix neared.'

Umfreville said a new stand with an approximate 1,600 seating capacity would be ready for the race.

Online ticket sales were also proving to be a greater hit than this time last year, as sales from the newly-revamped website have gone up by 45pc, said Umfreville.

He highlighted that ticket sales were a clear indicator of the growing motor sport awareness being generated in the region.

'To many across the GCC, the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix has become the event of the year to attend, and of the fans attending, this year may be their third, fourth or even fifth Grand Prix,' said Umfreville.

'This loyalty between the fans and BIC is crucial and one which shows that every year, we are giving these people something more to come back to.'

Umfreville said the new stand will overlook the start and finish line and will cater to Paddock Club guests.

The Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix was first hosted in 2004 and saw 45,000 spectators attend the three-day event. People can still buy tickets from the ticketing booth at Seef Mall, by visiting the online website or calling the hotline on 17450000.-TradeArabia News Service