A new Formula 1 season has started. This afternoon, the eyes of the motorsport world have focused their gaze on the Sakhir International Circuit to witness the first race of the year.

As usual, plenty of famous celebrities do not want to miss the event, and on this occasion, Brazilian footballer Neymar has taken advantage of the proximity between Bahrain and Saudi Arabia to attend the Grand Prix. The race, which was moved to Saturday instead of the traditional Sunday, is a melting pot of famous faces from around the world.

Which celebrities were at the Bahrain GP?

During his visit around the Sakhir International Circuit, the Olympic medalist took pictures with members of some of the teams and even with RedBull driver Sergio ‘Checo’ Perez before the race. Neymar was not the only footballer present; Frenchman and former Manchester United player Patrice Evra was also captured on the grid.

Other personalities such as former driver Dario Franchitti, and famed British TV presenter and motorsport enthusiast Jeremy Clarkson, a regular attendee at Formula 1 races, also made an appearance.

Neymar is currently out of action with Al-Hilal after he suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), meaning he is likely to be sidelines until August: he will miss Brazil’s attempt to win the Copa América in the USA between June 20 and July 14.

“We expect that he will be ready to return at the start of the 2024 season in Europe”, said Brazil’s national team doctor Rodrigo Lasmar, “which is in August. We need to be patient. Talking about a return before nine months is premature. It is very important to have the time it takes for the body to build that ligament. The expectation is that after this time, he will have recovered at a high level.”