Ecclestone Still Backing Bahrain

Formula One supremo Bernie Ecclestone repeated his support for the Bahrain Grand Prix on Wednesday and denied there had been any terrorist threats against the race.

"We have a long-term agreement with Bahrain to organise the Grand Prix," Ecclestone said in a statement issued by race promoters. "We are extremely serious about our commitment in the Middle East and fully support the addition to the FIA Formula One Championship.

"Nobody is immune from terrorist threats and I know how seriously the authorities take such claims. Neither the circuit nor we have received any such threats."

Bahrain is due to host the first Grand Prix in the Middle East on April 4 and organisers have said the new circuit is almost complete with the final layers of asphalt due to be laid in the next three weeks.

"Having visited the new circuit late last year I have seen that the construction work is ahead of schedule," added Ecclestone.

There has been considerable internet speculation about Bahrain's race, with doubts fuelled by the fact that the fate of the French Grand Prix has yet to be announced.

France was given to the end of last year to secure its future or be struck off the provisional 18-race calendar. Team bosses are meeting Ecclestone and FIA president Max Mosley in London on Friday with a decision likely then.

Team boss Eddie Jordan also visited Bahrain this week to inspect the circuit.

"I am amazed at this place," Jordan said. "It's almost beyond description actually. It also...is going to provide drivers with overtaking opportunities and will, I am sure, provide the global television audience and spectators with a sensational race."