Bahrain GP bosses promise safe event

With tensions high in Bahrain following the deaths of protesters campaigning for political reform, questions have emerged about the possibility of the season opening race being affected by the events.

A campaign group spoke out on Tuesday saying that it would target the grand prix to try and publicise its cause.

F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone has said he is concerned by the situation, and Bahrain GP chiefs issued a statement on Tuesday night indicating that they were monitoring the events closely ahead of planned testing at the track and the race.

Bahrain International Circuit CEO, Shaikh Salman bin Isa Al Khalifa, said: "The safety of all Bahraini nationals, expats and overseas visitors is a priority at all times in the Kingdom and, at the Bahrain International Circuit, our focus at the present time is on delivering another successful event in the form of the 2011 Gulf Air Formula 1 Bahrain Grand Prix.

"We are monitoring the situation very closely indeed in association with the relevant authorities, and will respond appropriately to any further developments."