The president of the Automobile Federation of Bahrain, Sheikh Abdullah bin Isa Al Khalifa, is hoping its Formula 1 race can help to unify the country during a difficult period, but admitted they couldn’t make any guarantees over safety.
Al Khalifa believes the race will unite citizens following months of protests against the government, which resulted in last years grand prix being cancelled.
“People keep asking me about Bahrain, and I appreciate their apprehension, but anybody who has been there before and comes now will see there is no difference,” he said.
“It is why I’m hoping for the race to come as quickly as possible, just to let the [F1] community see and feel what is really going on in Bahrain.
“I know all eyes are on us, but for me I feel there is a buzz going on in the country to rally around Formula One.
“So my message to Formula One is ‘be part of unifying my country’.”
Al Khalifa isn’t worried about safety fears which he believes are nonsene, thus not requring additional security during the race, but admitted he couldn’t guarantee it.
“Any death is unfortunate or regrettable, but no, I’m not worried at all,” he added. “Of course, there are no guarantees in this world. You could be anywhere, even Silverstone.
“All I can guarantee you is you will be as safe as at any other grand prix.”
