(Información remitida por la empresa firmante)
In a groundbreaking achievement at the Bahrain International Circuit, Red Bull athlete and Rotax Brand Ambassador Luke Czepiela became the first pilot to fly the complete racing line of a Formula 1 Grand Prix track from the air. The project showcases the capabilities of Rotax-powered aviation in a dramatic low-level performance.
NEWS AKTUELL // Gunskirchen, Austria – February 10, 2026 – In a demonstration of exceptional precision flying, Luke Czepiela traced the full ideal racing line of the Bahrain International Circuit at low altitude, including short takeoffs and landings (STOL) on the start/finish straight. The achievement is documented in the short film Aircraft Meets Racetrack, the first project resulting from BRP-Rotax’s Brand Ambassador partnership with Czepiela, launched in 2025. The film premiered today during the Bahrain International Circuit’s official F1 pre-season press conference.
When Racing Meets Aviation
The project translates the precision of motorsport into the air. The circuit’s racing line—normally followed by drivers with millimetric accuracy—was transformed into an aerial flight path. Executing this maneuver required exceptionally tight tolerances, rapid transitions between high and low speeds, and uncompromising line discipline.
The operational environment allowed virtually no margin for error. Low altitude, shifting wind conditions, more than 495 light poles, and the narrow, enclosed layout of the Grand Prix track created a highly demanding flight profile.
“Flying a racing line from the air demands absolute control at low altitude and instant reaction in every phase,” said Czepiela. “It is precision flying in its purest form.”
The flight was performed in a CubCrafters Carbon Cub UL equipped with a 160 hp Rotax 916 iS engine. The aircraft’s lightweight STOL configuration, immediate throttle response, and outstanding power-to-weight ratio were critical to successfully replicating the racing line from the air.
Production took place during the 2025 Rotax MAX Challenge Grand Finals in Bahrain, marking the first time all project partners collaborated onsite. In close coordination with the Bahrain International Circuit, Red Bull Bahrain, and local authorities, the team implemented a comprehensive safety and operations plan. The circuit and surrounding airspace were fully closed to ensure uninterrupted filming, with continuous air traffic coordination and emergency services on standby.
“With Luke Czepiela, we set out to create something that authentically unites our two passions: racing and aviation,” said Peter Ölsinger, General Manager of BRP-Rotax and Vice President Sales, Marketing RPS Business & Communications. “This project represents technical precision, long-standing partnerships, and the courage to pursue new creative paths.”
Beyond showcasing an extraordinary achievement, the film underscores Rotax’s mission to connect disciplines, push boundaries, and deliver high-performance experiences—both on the ground and in the air.
Links:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNgMGArCGBU
Press Kit: https://newsroom.ketchum.at/Media.aspx?menueid=34496
Press Contact: gerrit.zinnhobler@brp.com