MANAMA: Televisions around the globe will be tuned in to Bahrain today with more than 500 million viewers expected to witness the 10th anniversary of the Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix.

His Majesty King Hamad visited the Bahrain International Circuit and was briefed on the preparations by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince, Deputy Supreme Commander and First Deputy Premier.

His Majesty also attended the qualifying session where Mercedes locked out the front row as Nico Rosberg claimed pole position, qualifying ahead of teammate Lewis Hamilton.

The King was received on arrival by the Crown Prince, BIC chairman Zayed Al Zayani and board members, who praised his support for motorsport.

His Majesty then bestowed the Bahrain First Class Order on FŽdŽration Internationale de l’Automobile President Jean Todt in recognition of his pivotal role in the Formula One races.

He also bestowed the Bahrain First Class Order on prominent actress Michelle Yeoh in acknowledgment of her contribution in advocating humanitarian causes and community service.

Fans also gave a resounding thumbs up to the landmark event as they thronged the track in their thousands to watch the qualifying.

Races from the GP2 feeder series and Porsche GT3 Middle East provided thrills and spills while off track the entertainment came in the form of headline sets from German rock legends The Scorpions and international DJ and producer Afrojack after a full day of action at the circuit in Sakhir.

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