IF you are watching the Formula 1 podium celebrations this weekend and notice the drivers spraying something that does not look quite like champagne, there is a good reason.
The bottles contain rosewater, which is used as an alcohol-free alternative at F1 races held in countries where alcohol is prohibited.
That tradition will be seen at this weekend’s Bahrain Grand Prix, which is being held at the Sepang International Circuit in Malaysia.
F1 photographer and paddock insider Kym Illman recently explained the unusual podium arrangement, saying the rosewater being used this weekend was brought in from Bahrain.
The drink will reportedly be served chilled and pressurised, helping it produce the fizz and spray associated with traditional podium celebrations.
Champagne has been part of F1 victory celebrations since the 1950s, while the now-famous practice of drivers spraying bottles over one another became established in motorsport during the 1960s.
Moët & Chandon returned as Formula 1’s official champagne partner in 2025, but sparkling rosewater continues to be used on the podium at races in the Middle East.
So, while the drivers may still perform the familiar bottle-spraying celebration at Sepang this weekend, the liquid flying through the air will not be champagne.
It will be rosewater.
